Lizzo: “My work ethic, morals, and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticized”
Lizzo finally broke her silence about the controversy that is currently hounding her via an Instagram post last August 3, 2023. The singer claimed that she was “hurt” but she nevertheless dismissed the sexual harassment and hostile work environment allegations made by three former dancers in a lawsuit.
“These last few days have been gut-wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing.
“My work ethic, morals, and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticized,” she said.
Saying that she’s not usually the type to respond to “false allegations,” the “About Damn Time” performer reiterated that the allegations “are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.”
Read: Pop Star Lizzo Now Facing Several Harassment Suits
She dismissed the allegations made in the lawsuit, calling the accounts “sensationalized stories” and said the former employees “have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.”
Lizzo on hard decisions
Lizzo also pointed out that sometimes she had to make “hard decisions” in creating her music and performances.
“But it’s never my intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or like they aren’t valued as an important part of the team.
“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,” she explained.
Lizzo maintained that she is very open about expressing her sexuality, “but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not.”
The suit accused the star — known for embracing body positivity — of calling attention to one dancer — Arianna Davis — over her weight gain and later berating, then firing her after she recorded a meeting.
Seemingly referring to those allegations, Lizzo said: “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.”
In the end, the singer opted to take the higher road amid the controversy she got tangled with because of the lawsuit.
“I’m hurt but I will not let the good work I’ve done in the world be overshadowed by this,” she said, concluding her statement. “I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support to lift me up during this difficult time.”
Banner Art Paulo Correa
