Despite her denial of all negative claims, Lizzo seems to have more accusations piling up.
Following the hostile work environment lawsuit announced last week, the law firm representing the star’s ex-employees has reported that “at least six people” have filed new complaints about the work environment they endured. Those coming forward have either toured with Lizzo or been on her show, Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls.
For now, the new allegations are all simply claims, but Ron Zambrano — the lawyer representing the three dancers in the lawsuit — told reporters that some claims “may be actionable, but it is too soon to say.” He explained that the majority of the allegations included complains of a “sexually charged environment” and the star’s failure to pay her employees. These allegations line up with those in the lawsuit, which include sexual harassment, fat shaming and much more.
President of West Coast Employment Lawyers, Neama Rahmani, did not take too kindly to Lizzo’s denial of the accusations, where she told her followers that her ex-employees are telling “sensationalized” stories to “hurt” her. Rahmani clapped back at Lizzo, threatening to take her to trial. Rahmani said, “Given Lizzo is denying that any of this happened, let’s take it to trial. More witnesses are coming forward every day corroborating the plaintiffs’ allegations, so we’re looking forward to facing Lizzo and her team in court.”
Lizzo took to Instagram to share her response to the lawsuit. In full, it reads:
“These last few day have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing. 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.
These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.
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.
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 these last few days. I am very open with my sexuality and expressing myself but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not. 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.
I’m hurt but I will not let the good work I’ve done in the world be overshadowed by this. I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support to lift me up during this difficult time.”
Despite the heartfelt post showing her shock, the plaintiffs in the lawsuit have some quite specific and damning stories to tell. Zambrano says that Lizzo’s harsh denial only continues to “add to our clients’ emotional distress.” It’s looking likely that this lawsuit will indeed make it to court, where Lizzo and her team will have a lot of explaining to do.