Lizzo Faces Lawsuit From Former Tour Dancers

Pop star Lizzo, known for promoting self-love and body positivity, is now facing serious legal trouble.

Three of her former dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, have filed a lawsuit against the singer, her dance captain, and her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring (BGBT). The legal action, filed in Los Angeles, includes a range of allegations. From sexual harassment to racial discrimination and unfair treatment during Lizzo’s European tour.

The lawsuit accuses Lizzo and others of creating a hostile work environment for the dancers between 2021 and 2023. The allegations include sexual, religious, and racial harassment, as well as discrimination, assault, and false imprisonment.

One specific incident mentioned in the case is where Lizzo allegedly pressured Arianna Davis to touch the breasts of another performer during a nightclub event in Amsterdam. Davis, feeling pressured and concerned about her future on the team, reluctantly complied.

Ironically, Lizzo, who has been a vocal advocate for body positivity, is also accused of fat-shaming. Davis claims that Lizzo and dance choreographer Tanisha Scott questioned her commitment to the dance cast, linking it to her weight gain.

The legal documents allege that such actions created a toxic environment, making Davis feel she had to disclose intimate personal details about her life to keep her job. These actions go against Lizzo’s public persona of celebrating diverse body types and self-acceptance.

The lawsuit also involves allegations against the dance team’s captain, Shirlene Quigley, who is accused of imposing her Christian beliefs on performers and demeaning those who engaged in premarital sex. Additionally, BGBT’s management team is accused of racial discrimination, treating black members of the dance troupe differently from other members. The case argues that negative stereotypes were used to disparage and discourage black women, while other dancers were not treated in the same manner.

The legal action further claims that Lizzo and BGBT did not pay the dancers fairly during certain parts of the European tour. Instead of receiving their regular pay, they were offered only 25% of their weekly wages as a retainer while not performing. Moreover, Lizzo and the company allegedly discouraged the dancers from taking on other jobs during these breaks, potentially affecting their financial stability and career opportunities.

As the news of the lawsuit emerged, Lizzo took to her official Instagram page to address the allegations. The Grammy and Emmy Award winner called the stories “sensationalized” and stated that they came from former employees who had admitted their inappropriate behavior on tour. She asserted that she takes her music and performances seriously and that her passion often requires making difficult decisions. However, she maintained that her intention was never to make anyone feel uncomfortable or undervalued.

Lizzo also emphasized that she does not wish to be seen as a victim but expressed hurt over being portrayed negatively by the media. She vehemently denied any involvement in body-shaming or terminating employees based on their weight, as she understands the struggles of being body-shamed herself.

As the case remains to be tested in court, the allegations against Lizzo, her dance captain, and BGBT are both shocking and disheartening. All parties involved have been approached for comment, and the world awaits their response as justice takes its course.