Grammy award-winning artist, Lizzo finds herself at the centre of a legal storm as allegations of harassment were recently filed against her.
Lizzo’s former backup dancers (Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez) have filed a lawsuit against the Grammy-winning artist, alleging that they faced sexual harassment, disability discrimination, and false imprisonment, among other allegations during their time alongside her.
According to the trios’ lawsuit, Lizzo created a discomforting environment, pressuring dancers to engage in explicit activities, and subjecting them to demeaning treatment. Disturbing incidents include berating a dancer for weight gain, coercing her to touch a nude performer's breasts, and a dancer soiling herself due to restroom restrictions during rehearsals. Lizzo's response to weight gain allegedly led a dancer to disclose a binge eating disorder. The lawsuit sheds light on a troubling behind-the-scenes reality.
Lizzo denied the lawsuit on her social media emphasising her commitment to creating a positive environment. However, her choice of wording in her post has led to others questioning whether her response constitutes gaslighting - a form of psychological manipulation aimed at making individuals doubt their own perceptions and experiences.
See her full response below:
View this post on Instagram
In a recent interview with ET Online, the trio shared their perspectives on her response to the lawsuit. According to ET Online, one of the dancers who wished to remain anonymous stated, “We were excited to work with Lizzo, but our experiences were far from what she portrayed. It’s disheartening to see our concerns being dismissed.”
As the legal battle between Lizzo and her former dancers continues, fans and critics have started conversations on social media discussing the responsibilities of influential figures in fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.
