Taking a shocking turn of events, three of the former dancers who worked with renowned rapper and body positivity advocate Lizzo, known offstage as Melissa Viviane Jefferson, have leveled serious accusations against her. The dancers have filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court. They have claimed to go through sexual harassment, the creation of a hostile work environment, and a series of distressing incidents that they endured during their time working with the artist.
The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday by the dancers’ legal representation, details disturbing instances of alleged misconduct. One of the most troubling accusations revolves around an incident at an Amsterdam club. There Lizzo allegedly pressured one of the dancers to touch a nude performer. The lawsuit also claims that the group was subjected to a grueling and unjust audition process, following false accusations of on-the-job drinking.
Ironically, Lizzo celebrated for her empowering stance on body positivity and self-acceptance. But she herself is accused of fat shaming and berating one of the dancers due to weight gain. The plaintiff, Arianna Davis, asserts that Lizzo and her choreographer implied her “commitment” to the role had waned after she appeared at the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival. This comment is described in the lawsuit as a thinly veiled allusion to Davis’ weight.
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Lizzo discusses intimate and explicit topics
The legal filing further implicates the captain of Lizzo’s dance team, Shirlene Quigley, for inappropriate behavior. It included discussing intimate and explicit topics, as well as making derogatory remarks about performers’ personal lives. While it remains unclear whether Lizzo was aware of the allegations against Quigley, the plaintiffs assert that they informed the artist of their complaints.
The lawsuit covers a spectrum of allegations, encompassing not only sexual harassment and hostile work environment claims but also religious and racial harassment, false imprisonment, and interference with prospective economic advantage. The specific claims vary in their application to each defendant.
At present, representatives for Lizzo and Quigley have yet to respond to the allegations. Efforts to contact Lizzo’s production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc., have also gone unanswered.
This case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among Lizzo’s fanbase. It has raised questions about the consistency of the artist’s public image with her alleged behavior. As the legal process unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how this situation evolves.
