Lizzo's Fiery Comeback: Dancers Allege Troubling 'Gaslighting' and 'Retaliation' in Lawsuit Response
Lizzo's former backup dancers claim her response to their lawsuit involved more 'gaslighting' and 'retaliation,' suggesting she attempted to deflect from the core issues at hand
Lizzo Daniel DeSlover/Shutterstock
Dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez express their dissatisfaction with Lizzo's response to their lawsuit. Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, the trio shared their thoughts on Lizzo's denial of the accusations of a hostile work environment. Williams remarked, "It's intriguing to see how open and sincere we were about the trauma we went through, and then for her to essentially gaslight us in her response," on Thursday, August 3. She further added, "She didn't directly address any of the claims we presented."
Williams contended that Lizzo's response only reinforces the recurring pattern of mistreatment that she and her fellow dancers allegedly faced while working for the Grammy winner. According to Williams, whenever they raised concerns or advocated for themselves, they were met with retaliatory actions instead of understanding and support from Lizzo. Williams emphasized that it was important for Lizzo to acknowledge their experiences and show genuine concern, rather than dismissing their concerns. The lack of accountability exhibited by Lizzo only serves to solidify the dancers' claims and further demonstrates the continuous gaslighting and deflection that they endured.
On Tuesday, August 1, it was confirmed that Lizzo, her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring, and dance captain Shirlene Quigley were sued by Davis, Williams, and Rodriguez. These individuals alleged various forms of mistreatment, including religious harassment, disability discrimination, and sexual harassment, within Lizzo's troupe.
Two days later, Lizzo responded to these allegations with a detailed statement on Instagram, dismissing them as untrue and unfounded. She accused the former employees who made these claims of admitting publicly that their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional. Lizzo emphasized her dedication as an artist, stating that she takes her music and performances seriously in order to create the best art that represents both herself and her fans.
Lizzo refuted the dancers' claims of her being the villain and emphasized the importance of respecting women. She expressed feeling hurt by the narrative of the lawsuit.
When additional information about the lawsuit came to light, filmmaker Sophia Nahli Allison revealed her own encounter with Lizzo while working together on a tour documentary in 2019. However, Allison eventually decided to step away from the project.
"I decided to leave after approximately two weeks due to the disrespectful treatment I received from her," she tweeted on Tuesday. She claimed to have felt gaslit and deeply hurt by Lizzo.
In terms of legal action, attorney Neama Rahmani believes that the dancers may be ready to take their allegations to trial. "While most cases tend to settle, I can envision this one potentially going to trial. There are instances where entertainers, whether due to denial or narcissism, are unwilling to admit their mistakes," the lawyer exclusively shared with Us.
Rahmani suggested that a "resolution" might be achievable if all parties act strategically. "It is now up to Lizzo and her lawyers to decide and take action, which will truly determine if this case goes to court or is settled," he stated.
