Introduction
In a new lawsuit filed on Tuesday, three of Lizzo’s tour dancers accused the famed artist of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment.
These reported incidents, which happened between 2021 and 2023, provoked indignation and shed light on the darker side of the music industry.
Sexual Harassment Complaints
Lizzo who is known for preaching body acceptance and self-love, is said to have chastised one of her dancers for gaining weight recently. Furthermore, she allegedly berated and then dismissed the dancer for recording a meeting. This conduct highlights worries about body image and the entertainment industry’s poisonous culture.
One of the most alarming charges includes Lizzo reportedly forcing a dancer at an Amsterdam bar to touch a naked performer. Such conduct is not only unprofessional, but also absolutely inappropriate in any workplace. It is critical to address these concerns in order to protect the safety and well-being of performers.
Creating an Unfavorable Work Environment
Aside from sexual harassment, Lizzo is accused of racial and religious discrimination against her dancers. According to the lawsuit, she permitted her dance captain, Shirlene Quigley, to impose her Christian beliefs on other dancers and disparage those who indulged in premarital sex. Furthermore, detailed sexual chats and filthy ideas were purportedly conveyed, creating an uneasy and hostile environment.
Claims Made by the Dancers
The case asserts charges such as sexual harassment, hostile work environment, false detention, and interference with potential economic gain. It is worth noting that not every claim was filed against every defendant.
Legal Counsel’s Statement
“The stunning nature of how Lizzo and her management team treated their performers appears to go against everything Lizzo stands for publicly, while privately she weight-shames and demeans her dancers in ways that are not only illegal, but absolutely demoralizing,” he added.
Disturbing Incident at an Amsterdam Club
One of the upsetting occurrences described in the complaint occurred earlier this year at an Amsterdam club. The singer allegedly urged cast members to participate in graphic actions involving naked performers, putting the dancers in an awkward predicament.
Dancer Forced to Touch a Nude Performer
According to the lawsuit, Lizzo forced one of her dancers, Davis, to touch a performer’s bare breasts. When Davis originally refused, Lizzo pushed her until she relented.
Explosive Reaction to a Recording
In another instance, Davis taped a meeting to go over Lizzo’s dance team notes. Lizzo allegedly grew enraged after seeing the recording and attacked the whole dance squad, demanding to know who produced it.
Unjust Treatment and Compensation
The dancers stated that while they were not on tour, they were only paid 25% of their weekly wage, whilst other performers were paid 50%. They were also apparently advised not to work on any other projects while on tour, which added to their sense of unfairness.
The Background of the Dancers Involved
Ms. Davis and Ms. Williams met Lizzo in March 2021 as they prepared to participate on the reality TV show “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls.” Ms. Rodriguez, the third dancer, was hired later in May 2021 for Lizzo’s “Rumours” music video and continued with the dance ensemble.
Conclusion
Lizzo have revealed a disturbing picture of exploitation and harassment among her dancing company, raising questions about the alignment of her public image and private behavior. As the case moves forward, it will be critical to address the dancers’ concerns and secure a fair conclusion for all parties involved.
