Lizzo Faces Allegations of Sexual Harassment and Hostile Work Environment from Former Dancers
In a shocking turn of events, three former dancers of the renowned singer Lizzo have come forward with serious accusations of sexual harassment and a hostile work environment. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, sheds light on troubling incidents within the performer's dance team, which contradict Lizzo's public image as a champion of body positivity.
According to the lawsuit provided by the plaintiffs' law firm, the dancers allege that Lizzo pressured one of them to touch a nude performer at an Amsterdam club, an uncomfortable and distressing situation. Moreover, they claim that the group endured an "excruciating" audition process after false accusations were made against them for drinking on the job.
The dancers further accused Lizzo of body-shaming one of them after an appearance at the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival. The singer and her choreographer allegedly commented on the dancer's weight, insinuating concerns about her commitment to the role.
Adding to the severity of the allegations, the lawsuit implicates the captain of Lizzo's dance team, Shirlene Quigley. She is accused of proselytizing to other performers and making derogatory remarks about those who engaged in premarital sex. The suit also alleges that Quigley shared lewd sexual fantasies, simulated oral sex, and publicly discussed the virginity of one of the plaintiffs.
While the lawsuit does not explicitly state if Lizzo was aware of the allegations against Quigley, the plaintiffs' lawyer asserts that they believed the singer was informed about their complaints.
The lawsuit names Lizzo, whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, her production company, and Quigley as defendants. It encompasses various claims, including religious and racial harassment, false imprisonment, interference with prospective economic advantage, and other allegations.
The three dancers involved in the lawsuit, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, each had their own experiences. Davis and Williams initially performed with Lizzo after competing on her Amazon reality show, "Watch Out for the Big Grrrls," in 2021, only to be fired later. Rodriguez was hired the same year after appearing in Lizzo's video "Rumors" and resigned earlier this year.
The allegations made by the former dancers are serious and troubling, raising questions about the treatment of performers in the entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings unfold, the public waits for responses from Lizzo and her team, hoping for accountability and justice in the wake of these distressing accusations.