Lizzo confronted with charges of sexual harassment and body shaming.
Pop sensation Lizzo is currently facing legal action brought by three of her former dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez. The lawsuit encompasses a range of allegations, including claims of sexual harassment, religious discrimination, racial harassment, assault, false imprisonment, and fat shaming. The lawsuit asserts that the dancers were subjected to a hostile work environment and forced to endure demeaning behaviour, including participating in explicit performances, from 2021 to 2023.
Among the allegations, Lizzo, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, is accused of pressuring one of the dancers, Ms. Davis, to touch another performer’s breasts during a nightclub event in Amsterdam. Ms. Davis reportedly felt compelled to comply, fearing negative consequences for her position on the dance team if she refused. Furthermore, Lizzo and dance choreographer Tanisha Scott are accused of weight-shaming Ms. Davis during a tour, implying that her weight gain might affect her job security.
The lawsuit also highlights instances where the dance team’s captain, Shirlene Quigley, allegedly imposed her Christian beliefs on the performers and criticised those who engaged in premarital sex.
The plaintiffs also raise concerns about unfair compensation during Lizzo’s European tour. They contend that they were paid only 25% of their weekly compensatory pay during periods when they weren’t performing, while other performers received 50%. They also assert that they were prohibited from taking on other projects while on tour.
The legal action was filed in Los Angeles and names Lizzo and others as defendants. Despite these serious allegations, Lizzo has not yet publicly responded to the accusations, and the case’s validity will be determined through legal proceedings. The three dancers involved in the lawsuit initially crossed paths with Lizzo in March 2021 while preparing for a reality TV show, and their experiences spanned various performances and events.
Lizzo, known for her body-positive and self-love messaging, has delivered chart-topping hits like “Truth Hurts,” “About Damn Time,” “Juice,” “Good As Hell,” and “2 Be Loved.” As this legal battle unfolds, the spotlight remains on the allegations against the star and her former dancers’ quest for justice and accountability.
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