Los Angeles, California – Grammy-winning artist Lizzo has been denied her request to dismiss a sexual harassment lawsuit filed against her by several of her former background dancers. The ruling, made by a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge, states that the case will proceed. The lawsuit, filed on August 1, 2023, alleges abuse, harassment, discrimination, and workplace violations by Lizzo and her company, Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc. The plaintiffs, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, claim that they faced multiple forms of mistreatment while working for the musician.
Attorney Ron Zambrano, representing the three women, expressed satisfaction with the judge’s ruling, calling it a victory. While some allegations were dismissed, including claims of fat-shaming, a nude photoshoot, and being put on hold while not on tour, the lawsuit will continue to address sexual, religious, and racial discrimination, sexual harassment, visits to questionable establishments in Amsterdam and Paris, false imprisonment, and assault. Zambrano emphasized that the ruling signifies that celebrities, like Lizzo, are not exempt from accountability for such conduct.
Lizzo’s spokesperson, Stefan Friedman, stated that they were pleased with the judge’s decision to dismiss some of the causes of action in the lawsuit. Friedman expressed confidence in their appeal to overturn the remaining allegations and mentioned that Lizzo is an advocate for uplifting others and spreading positivity.
The court document also refers to Amsterdam’s Red Light District, specifically mentioning the Bananenbar. This is in connection to an incident where Lizzo allegedly insisted that members of her touring team join her at the venue, which features nude dancers. The plaintiffs claimed that they were forced to participate in prayer circles and experienced other forms of harassment.
The lawsuit involves dancers Arianna Davis and Crystal Williams, who started working for Lizzo in 2021 for the reality show “Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” and Noelle Rodriguez, who joined in 2021 after performing in the singer’s music video for “Rumors” but resigned in 2022.
In an extensive statement on social media in August 2023, Lizzo denied the accusations, calling them outrageous and criticizing sensationalized stories. She defended her work ethic, character, and professionalism, stating that the plaintiffs were previously informed of their inappropriate behavior on tour.
The judge’s ruling reflects a balance between protecting constitutional rights and addressing allegations of discrimination and misconduct in a speech-related environment. Lizzo and her dance captain, Shirlene Quigley, still have to face accusations of sexual harassment, racial discrimination, and religious discrimination.
In conclusion, Lizzo’s attempt to have the sexual harassment lawsuit dismissed has been denied by a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge. The ruling indicates that the case will progress, addressing allegations of abuse, harassment, discrimination, and workplace violations made by the singer’s former background dancers. Both sides have expressed their positions, with the plaintiffs asserting that celebrities should be held accountable, while Lizzo’s spokesperson asserts her innocence and commitment to positivity.