A judge has dismissed allegations of fat-shaming made against pop artist Lizzo as part of a 2023 lawsuit filed by three of her former dancers. Lizzo, whose legal name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, addressed the development in a video statement posted to her social media accounts.
"There was no evidence that I fired them because they gained weight," Lizzo stated. She further clarified, "They were fired for taking a private recording of me without my consent and sending it off to ex-employees."
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
While the specific claims related to fat-shaming have been dismissed, the broader case against Lizzo and her production company is proceeding. This ongoing litigation concerns allegations of sexual harassment brought forth by the three dancers.
Last year, a Los Angeles judge ruled that the majority of the case could move forward, despite Lizzo's team having previously characterized the lawsuit as unfounded.
Dancers' Claims
Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, the plaintiffs, assert they were subjected to sexual harassment and pressured into attending sex shows and engaging with nude performers between 2021 and 2023.
Specific accusations include that Lizzo "pressured Ms Davis to touch the breasts" of a dancer at an Amsterdam nightclub. According to court documents, Ms. Davis initially resisted but complied due to concerns about her future employment. The lawsuit also details claims that dancers were asked to consume fruit from the naked bodies of sex club employees.
Legal Arguments
Lizzo's legal team attempted to appeal the decision allowing these claims to proceed to trial. They argued that group outings were part of the singer's creative process and should therefore be protected under First Amendment free speech provisions.
In opposition, the dancers' lawyer, Ari Stiller, contended that merely claiming inspiration was insufficient to shield such activities. Stiller advocated for the claims to be heard in court.
Lizzo has publicly stated throughout her career that she advocates for and celebrates individuals with larger bodies.