Lizzo's Harassment Lawsuit Takes a Shocking Turn: 6 Additional Plaintiffs Unearthed!

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More of Lizzo‘s employees are expected to join the lawsuit against the singer for harassment and discrimination.

In a statement to We on Wednesday, August 9, Ron Zambrano, the Employment Litigation Chair at West Coast Trial Lawyers, announced that his firm is currently examining claims from at least six additional individuals who have raised allegations of mistreatment. Zambrano acknowledged that his firm has received at least six inquiries from individuals who have shared similar stories since the initial complaint was filed. He praised Noelle, Crystal, and Arianna for their courage in speaking out and sharing their experiences, as it has encouraged others to come forward. Zambrano indicated that some of the claims being reviewed involve allegations of a sexually charged work environment and employee payment issues, which may potentially give rise to legal action. However, he cautioned that it is still too early to make a definitive statement in this regard.

Zambrano stated to NBC News that the potential plaintiffs, who remain unnamed, had employment on Lizzo's tour or her reality show on Prime Video, titled "Lizzo's Watch Out for the Big Grrrls." Attorney Neama Rahmani, Zambrano's associate, informed Us on August 9 that the legal firm is currently in discussions with potential new plaintiffs and witnesses in order to validate their claims.

"In this case, we have witnesses coming forward daily to support our client's allegations," he stated. "These individuals may wish to join the lawsuit or may not wish to be involved, but they are providing anonymous testimony, affirming that they have experienced similar situations. It is akin to the Me Too movement."

Earlier this month, Us confirmed that Lizzo, the Grammy winner aged 35, is facing a lawsuit filed by three former backup dancers: Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez. They claim to have endured a hostile work environment, religious harassment, disability discrimination, and sexual harassment. The lawsuit also includes Lizzo's tour company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc. (BGBT), and dance captain Shirlene Quigley.

According to court documents obtained by Us, explosive claims have emerged about the dancers who reportedly felt obligated to attend an outing in Amsterdam's Red Light District. The lawsuit alleges that while at Bananenbar, the situation quickly escalated. Lizzo allegedly encouraged cast members to participate in various activities, including touching nude performers, catching launched dildos, and consuming bananas exhibited by the performers. Additionally, Lizzo allegedly pressured Ms. Davis to touch the breasts of a nude woman performing at the club. The documents also include allegations of weight-shaming, coercing dancers into a nude photoshoot, and creating a hostile work environment.

Lizzo responded to the lawsuit on Thursday, August 3, vehemently denying the allegations and calling them "false," "unbelievable," and "too outrageous to ignore." In a detailed statement shared on Instagram, she addressed the sensationalized stories that were being spread by former employees who had already admitted to being informed about their inappropriate and unprofessional behavior during the tour. Expressing her unwavering dedication as an artist, Lizzo emphasized her commitment to producing high-quality music and performances that accurately represent both herself and her fans.

Lizzo asserted that she refuses to be seen as a victim, yet she also denies being the villain that she is portrayed as. In a sincere message, she emphasized the importance of women being treated with respect in society. She shared her personal experience of enduring daily body shaming and vowed to never judge or terminate an employee based on their weight. Despite feeling hurt, she is determined not to let this overshadow the positive impact she has made on the world. She expressed gratitude to all those who have shown support during this challenging time.

However, Davis, Williams, and Rodriguez, in an interview with Entertainment Tonight, expressed their disappointment with their former boss' response. Williams found it intriguing that Lizzo chose to be open and genuine about their traumatic experiences but did not address their specific claims, ultimately making them feel gaslighted.

The trio was displeased with Lizzo's response, but Rahmani shared with Us last week that they may find solace in the fact that others are coming forward to discuss their experiences working with Lizzo. "Strength lies in numbers," Rahmani stated on August 2. "Just like the #MeToo movement targeted wealthy and influential men, it's important to acknowledge that anyone can harass or discriminate against young women, especially young women of color who face discrimination based on their health conditions and religious beliefs. Racial issues and sexual harassment have left them absolutely devastated. Losing their dream job has been a major blow, and I'm currently working on helping them piece their lives back together."

The lawyer stated that the dancers are prepared to bring this case to court. "Lizzo had two options: to apologize and attempt to rectify the situation, potentially leading to a resolution, or, more likely, to deny the allegations. And as expected, she chose the latter," Rahmani informed Us on Wednesday. "However, it is important to note that denials do not necessarily mean something is untrue, as both civil and criminal defendants frequently employ this strategy."

He continued, "Regarding Liza's allegations, I want to clarify that the individuals accused of inappropriate behavior were specifically the Black dancers. It is important to note that these dancers are not just former employees who left on bad terms. Noelle, a renowned client who has worked with Beyoncé, Janet Jackson, and Lady Gaga, chose to quit upon witnessing the mistreatment of the other two dancers. Despite her extensive experience, she has never been treated as poorly as Lizzo has treated them."

Rahmani expressed his anticipation for presenting their case in a public courtroom and having it evaluated by a jury of their peers, alongside West Coast Trial Lawyers.

Reporting by Christina Garibaldi