Singer Lizzo recently addressed allegations of being an abusive employer that were made by three former dancers. In a statement released to the public, she expressed her intentions to dispute the accusations.
The dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, have come forward with allegations of harassment. They claim to have experienced weight-shaming, sexual comments and advances, inappropriate touching, and a hostile work environment.
The statement reads:
“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 criticised. Usually I chose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.
“The sensationalised stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted they were told their behaviour 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 of allow people to use that openness to make me out 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 reached in support to lift me up during this difficult time.”
