Lizzo, the Grammy-winning singer, is facing a lawsuit from her former backup dancers, Crystal Williams, Arianna Davis, and Noelle Rodriguez, who filed their complaint last month, making allegations of sexual, racial, and religious harassment, including claims of body shaming by the singer. In a recent court filing on Wednesday, Lizzo’s legal representatives issued a response to these allegations.
Denial of allegations
Media reports indicate that in the court filing, lawyers representing Lizzo, her tour company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc., and Shirlene Quigley, the singer’s dance team captain, have categorically denied the allegations made by the plaintiffs.
Lizzo’s legal team has requested the court to dismiss the case and has stated that they deny “generally and specifically each and every allegation contained in the complaint.” Additionally, they dispute that the dancers have suffered any harm or loss due to the actions or omissions of the defendants.
Statement from Lizzo’s spokesperson
Stefan Friedman, a spokesperson for Lizzo, issued a statement to USA TODAY, asserting Lizzo and her team’s commitment to the values they advocate for. He stated, “This is the first step of a legal process in which Lizzo and her team will demonstrate that they have always practiced what they’ve preached – whether it comes to promoting body positivity, leading a safe and supportive workplace, or protecting individuals from any harassment. Any and all claims to the contrary are ridiculous, and we look forward to proving so in a court of law.”
The attorney for the dancers responds
In response to Lizzo’s legal filing, Neama Rahmani, an attorney representing the dancers, characterized it as “boilerplate objections that have nothing to do with the case.”
Lizzo’s public statement
Lizzo publicly addressed the allegations for the first time at the Black Music Action Coalition gala, which took place shortly after the second lawsuit was filed. She told the audience on September 21 that she didn’t prepare a speech because she didn’t know what to say “in times like these.”
Lizzo’s previous response
Following the initial sexual harassment lawsuit filed by her former backup dancers, Lizzo took to Instagram to break her silence on the allegations. She stated, “These last few days have been gut-wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing,” and went on to express her commitment to respect and professionalism. Lizzo emphasized her stance against body shaming and denied terminating employees based on weight.
Lizzo concluded her statement by thanking those who had shown support during the challenging period.
The legal proceedings surrounding these allegations are ongoing, and further developments are anticipated.
