Lizzo is speaking out for the first time since three of her former dancers filed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and a hostile work environment.
On Thursday (August 3), Lizzo took to social media to dismiss the “unbelievable” and “outrageous” allegations made by former dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Nancy Rodriguez, per NBC News.
“These last few days have been gut-wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing,” the singer wrote on Instagram. “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,” she added.
In their lawsuit, the dancers claimed Lizzo pressured one of them to touch a nude performer at an Amsterdam strip club following a performance. Lizzo called their allegations “sensationalized stories.” She noted that her former employees, two of whom were fired and one who quit earlier this year, “have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.”
The “Special” singer went on to address how she approaches crafting her music and performances.
“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 said. “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 the last few days.”
The music star said she’s open about her sexuality, “but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not.”
The lawsuit also alleges that Davis was body-shamed by Lizzo and her choreographer, both of whom allegedly called attention to her weight, saying that she seemed “less committed to her role” because of it. Lizzo appeared to refer to these allegations in her statement.
“There is nothing I take more seriously than the respect we deserve as women in the world. I know what it feels like to be body shamed on a daily basis and would absolutely never criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight,” she said.
“I’m hurt but I will not let the good work I’ve done in the world be overshadowed by this,” Lizzo concluded her statement. “I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support to lift me up during this difficult time.”
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