Singer Lizzo is facing a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment, racism, and body shaming, which she describes as “ridiculous” and “stupid.” In a podcast interview with Keke Palmer, she expressed disbelief over the claims made by three former dancers, highlighting how they contradict her values. Lizzo shared details about a past event at a Paris cabaret and defended her actions, emphasizing the consensual nature of the outing. However, the plaintiffs’ attorney argues that the power dynamics may have pressured the dancers into compliance.
Lizzo Opens Up About Lawsuit Allegations
At 36 years old, singer Lizzo is currently navigating a turbulent legal battle involving allegations of sexual harassment, racism, and body shaming that emerged in August 2023. In a recent podcast episode, she took the opportunity to share her perspective on these claims during a conversation with host Keke Palmer, age 31. “I want to give this interview just once,” Lizzo stated at the outset, emphasizing her intention to connect with her loyal fans who have consistently supported her throughout her career. This marks her first interview in quite some time.
Charges Described as ‘Ridiculous and Stupid’
Lizzo expressed her disbelief over the lawsuit, describing the charges as “ridiculous” and “stupid.” Despite 2023 being a remarkable year for her, filled with personal and professional triumphs, she felt blindsided when three former dancers filed the lawsuit shortly after her tour wrapped up. “When you really read the lawsuit, it’s absurd,” she remarked during her appearance on the podcast “Baby, This is Keke Palmer.” The allegations of sexual harassment have particularly saddened her.
Reflecting on a past event, Lizzo mentioned a topless dance show at the Crazy Horse in Paris, an invitation she extended to her dancers for the past several years, emphasizing that attendance was completely optional. After the performance, her team had the chance to meet the dancers, and there are photos and videos showing her accusers enjoying themselves at the event. This starkly contrasts with the negative portrayal of her in the lawsuit.
Feeling deeply hurt by the allegations, Lizzo noted how they contradict her values as an artist. “My entire team consists of black women,” she stated, expressing confusion over the motivations behind the lawsuit. “Honestly, I don’t know what drove them to sue me and my whole team.”
Towards the conclusion of the episode, Lizzo recounted an outing to the famous Banana Bar in Amsterdam, known for its exotic dancers. She had been eager to visit based on the buzz surrounding it, especially since one of her background dancers was celebrating a birthday. With no plans following dinner, she suggested they head to the Banana Bar, where two of the dancers involved in the lawsuit chose to join them.
Lizzo maintained that while there were wild moments, everyone had a good time and everything was consensual. “This bar has been around since 1945. If they didn’t operate consensually, they would have been sued a long time ago,” she affirmed.
In response to Lizzo’s podcast revelations, attorney Ron Zambrano, representing the plaintiffs Crystal Williams, Arianna Davis, and Noelle Rodriguez, commented to ‘People.’ He asserted that Lizzo seems oblivious to the power dynamics at play, where young women starting their careers might feel pressured to accept invitations from a globally renowned boss. Zambrano emphasized that they are prepared to substantiate their claims in court, asserting that Lizzo will be unable to evade accountability for the allegations of sexual, religious, and racial harassment, along with creating a toxic work environment.