Lizzo’s current dancers praise her in open letter amid sexual harassment suit
Lizzo’s current dancers have praised her in a new open letter amid her lawsuit case.
Last month, the ‘Special’ singer was named in a lawsuit filed by three of her former dancers, who cite accusations of sexual harassment, racial harassment and a hostile work environment.
The three former Lizzo backup dancers - Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez - also alleged that they endured weight shaming while employed by Lizzo’s production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc.
The trio were part of Lizzo’s backup dance troupe Big Grrrls and Davis and Williams appeared in the reality show, Watch Out For the Big Grrrls, in which women competed to be dancers for Lizzo.
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Lizzo responded to the suit and said she was ‘hurt’ by the ‘sensationalised’ accusations.
“These last few days have been gut-wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing,” Lizzo - whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson - said in her response to the suit. “My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticised.”
Lizzo’s The Special Tour wrapped on 30 July, just one day before the lawsuit against her was filed. Now, the singer’s backing singers - known as the Big Boils and Big Grrrls have shared a statement defending her.
Known for promoting body positivity and acceptance, the statement thanked the singer-rapper for ‘[creating] a platform where we have been able to parallel our Passion with a purpose’.
"We have had the time of our lives on The Special Tour," the statement begins. "We have been so honored to share the stage with such amazing talent. This tour experience has been beyond just #Special!
"THANK YOU to Lizzo for shattering limitations and kicking in the doorway for the Big Grrrl and Big Boiii Dancers to do what we love!" the statement continues. "You have created a platform where we have been able to parallel our Passion with a purpose!"
The statement mentions the value of traveling the world and representing different body types.
“So many advantages to prevailing over hardships that society and the entertainment and beauty industry can bring… So Grateful that the standards and existence of Beauty in THIS Team goes beyond the surface!
“Our collective gifts have authentically powered the type of energy, love and that support can physiologically help heal the world. We are a unit of unicorns, undeniably resilient and SPECIAL AF.”
In her statement addressing the lawsuit, Lizzo wrote: "As an artist I have always been very passionate about what I do. I take my music and my performances seriously because at the end of the day I only want to put out the best art that represents me and my fans.
"With passion comes hard work and high standards. 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's statement went on to stress she did not want 'to be looked at as a victim', but insisted: "I also know that I am not the villain that people and the media have portrayed me to be these last few days."
Gregory Robinson