Lizzo Speaks Out: The Truth Behind the Hostile Work Environment Accusations

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Lizzo is speaking out after three of her former dancers filed a lawsuit against her for allegedly creating a toxic work environment.

In a lengthy statement on Thursday, August 3, Lizzo expressed her deep struggle and immense disappointment over the past few days. She felt her work ethic, morals, and respectfulness were questioned, and her character was heavily criticized. Lizzo deemed the allegations against her as false, unbelievable, and too outrageous to go unaddressed.

Moreover, Lizzo shed light on the fact that these sensationalized stories were being spread by former employees who had already admitted to being told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional. Being an artist, Lizzo emphasized her unwavering passion for her craft. She takes her music and performances seriously as she aims to deliver the best art that truly represents both herself and her fans.

Lizzo emphasized the importance of hard work and holding oneself to high standards, stating that she often has to make tough decisions. However, she clarified that she never intended to make anyone on her team feel undervalued. Lizzo also expressed that she does not want to be seen solely as a victim, nor is she the villain that she has been portrayed as.

She further mentioned that she values the respect that women deserve in the world and shared her personal experience with being body shamed on a daily basis. Lizzo made it clear that she would never criticize or fire an employee based on their weight. Despite feeling hurt by the situation, she affirmed that she will not allow it to overshadow the positive impact she has made in the world. Additionally, she expressed gratitude to those who have offered support during this challenging time.

On Tuesday, August 1, it was confirmed that Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez filed a lawsuit against Lizzo, her tour company, and dance captain Shirlene Quigley. Their claims include allegations of a hostile work environment, religious harassment, disability discrimination, sexual harassment, and other mistreatment while working with Lizzo (Melissa Jefferson). The lawsuit specifically mentions instances where the dancers felt uncomfortable, such as being asked to participate in a nude photo shoot for Lizzo's reality show.

"Ms. Davis tearfully reached a breaking point on set as she grappled with the difficult decision between a unique career opportunity and being objectified against her consent," stated the lawsuit, hinting at the uncomfortable and sexually charged atmosphere that Lizzo's employees were subsequently subjected to.

Additionally, the trio recounted an unpleasant visit to Amsterdam's Red Light District during their tour. Although Lizzo extended an invitation to her crew for this optional excursion, the dancers felt compelled to attend out of fear of potential job repercussions.

“At Bananenbar, the situation escalated rapidly. Lizzo started encouraging the cast members to participate in activities such as touching the nude performers, catching dildos launched from their vaginas, and eating bananas protruding from their vaginas," according to the documents. "Furthermore, Lizzo directed her attention towards Ms. Davis and insisted that she touch the breasts of one of the nude women performing at the club."

Following the exposure of these allegations, Sophia Nahli Allison, who had collaborated with Lizzo briefly on a documentary, recounted her encounter with the singer.

"I typically refrain from commenting on matters pertaining to popular culture. However, in the year 2019, I had the opportunity to accompany Lizzo and serve as the director for her documentary," shared Allison, who is 36 years old, on Twitter during that period. "After spending approximately two weeks on the project, I decided to discontinue my involvement due to the disrespectful treatment I experienced from her," she claimed.

The filmmaker, who received an Oscar nomination, felt compelled to share her personal encounter with Lizzo after becoming aware of the lawsuit. She further elaborated that her brief interaction with Lizzo left her with the impression of someone who was "arrogant, self-centered, and unkind."

"I found myself in an unprotected and incredibly challenging situation, lacking the necessary support," she stated. "My intuition told me to flee as swiftly as possible, and I am immensely grateful that I followed my instincts. I experienced immense psychological manipulation and profound pain, but I have since undergone a process of healing."