By: Natasha Archary
Lizzo has denied sexual harassment and weight-shaming allegations levelled against her by three of her former backup dancers, in an explosive lawsuit.
In a statement, the American rapper and body-positivity influencer said the claims made by Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez, were sensationalized, because they were subsequently dismissed by Lizzo and her team for unprofessional behaviour.
Melissa Viviane Jefferson, known professionally as Lizzo, may have denied the allegations against her, but she has since lost over 150 000 Instagram followers, since news of the serious accusations were brought to light.
The dancers claim they were pressured to eat bananas that were protruding out of nude sex workers’ vaginas, whilst out an after party that Lizzo had invited them to, in the Red Light District.
Whilst there, Lizzo allegedly invited her dancers to touch the nude performers, catch dildos that were “launched” from the performers’ vaginas, and eat bananas that were inserted inside the sex workers.
However, Lizzo says there is no truth to any of these “unbelievable and outrageous” accusations.
Apart from sexual harassment, Lizzo and her management were also accused of creating a hostile work environment.
“These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing. My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticized.
Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound, and too outrageous to not be addressed.
As an artist I have always been very passionate about what I do. I take my music and my performances seriously, because at the end of the day, I only want to put out the best art that represents me and my fans.
With passion comes hard work and high standards. Sometimes I have to make hard decisions but it’s never my intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or like they aren’t valued as an important part of the team.”
Lizzo
Lizzo said as much as she’s open with her sexuality, she will not stand for people using that openness to portray her to be something she’s not.
“I am not here to be looked at as a victim, but I also know that I am not the villain that people and the media have portrayed me to be these last few days.
I know what it feels like to be body-shamed on a daily basis, and would never criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight.”
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Also read: Kelly Khumalo responds to cancelled gigs, “Those who want to stay, will stay!”
