by Kyla Cruz
Three former dancers of the talented artist Lizzo have filed a lawsuit against her, as well as Big Grrrl Big Touring and Shirlene Quigley, accusing them of subjecting the dancers to weight-shaming, sexually demeaning behavior, and pressuring them into participating in disturbing sex shows.
Plaintiffs Arianna Davis and Crystal Williams assert in the lawsuit, filed on Tuesday and obtained by She's SINGLE, that they were eventually fired from their positions, while the third plaintiff, Noelle Rodriguez, chose to resign due to what she described as Lizzo's "stunning" behavior.
Image Credit: Anna Webber / Stringer / Getty Images
According to the lawsuit, during a concert trip to Amsterdam in February 2023, Lizzo invited the dancers for a night out in the city, which eventually led them to the red-light district. The area is notorious for its sex theaters, shops, and clubs, where nudity is prevalent. The lawsuit alleges that during the night, Lizzo encouraged the cast members to engage in explicit and inappropriate activities with nude performers, including touching and participating in explicit acts involving dildos and bananas.
The plaintiffs further claim that just a month later, Lizzo deceived them once again into attending another nude show, leaving them with no choice but to participate against their will.
One plaintiff, Arianna Davis, recounted an excruciating re-audition where she felt compelled to "soil herself" on stage out of fear of the repercussions if she excused herself to use the restroom.
Arianna Davis
As the situation escalated, Lizzo reportedly fired Davis abruptly after discovering that she had recorded one of their meetings, despite Davis claiming that it was only to keep a copy of the artist's notes. Following Davis' dismissal, Rodriguez decided to resign in solidarity with her colleague, alleging that she feared Lizzo's intention to harm her during an altercation that was eventually stopped by another dancer.
The lawsuit seeks general and special damages, as well as punitive damages and attorneys' fees, for the alleged mistreatment and misconduct.
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"The stunning nature of how Lizzo and her management team treated their performers seems to go against everything Lizzo stands for publicly, while privately she weight-shames her dancers and demeans them in ways that are absolutely demoralizing," stated the plaintiffs' attorney, Ron Zambrano, in a statement.
These allegations are particularly concerning given Lizzo's public image as a champion of body positivity and empowerment. Such claims raise questions about the artist's conduct behind the scenes and her adherence to the values she publicly advocates.
While the legal process will determine the truth and validity of the allegations, it is essential to take these accusations seriously and support the rights of all individuals, including those in the entertainment industry, to work in a safe, respectful, and professional environment.
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It is our hope that this lawsuit will encourage greater scrutiny and accountability within the entertainment industry, fostering an environment where artists and their teams uphold the same principles they advocate publicly. Regardless of the outcome, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with respect, dignity, and empathy, and standing up against any form of mistreatment or abuse of power.