The three backup dancers, who were all women of color, allege that Lizzo made derogatory comments about their weight and appearance. They also allege that they were forced to work long hours and were not paid properly. The prosecution’s argument is supported by text messages and emails that were exchanged between the dancers and Lizzo’s management team. They are also seeking financial damages.
Lizzo is known for her body-positive message, and her fans have been quick to defend her against the allegations. Denying the allegations, Lizzo asserted that she is “committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for all of my collaborators.”
After the dancers filed their lawsuit, Lizzo’s fans and supporters took to social media to express their disbelief. Supporters of the pop star argue that it is unlikely that someone like Lizzo, who is so vocal about body positivity and sisterhood, would then turn around and body-shame her own backup dancers.
The only evidence in the ongoing investigation so far is text messages and emails that are open to interpretation. It is possible that these messages are being used to misrepresent Lizzo’s actions by being taken out of context. Several fans have also questioned the timing of the lawsuit. The dancers filed their lawsuit just days before the Grammy Awards, where Lizzo was nominated for several awards.
In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile sexual harassment scandals against backup dancers in Hollywood. In 2022, two former backup dancers for Justin Bieber filed a lawsuit against him, alleging sexual harassment and assault.