In a shocking turn of events, three former dancers of pop sensation Lizzo have filed a lawsuit against her, alleging a hostile and sexually charged work environment. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, accuses Lizzo, her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc. (BGBT), and Shirlene Quigley, the captain of her dance team, of fostering an environment that contradicts the body-positive image Lizzo publicly advocates.
The plaintiffs, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, claim they were subjected to weight-shaming, sexually denigrating behavior, and religious harassment. They also allege that they were pressured into participating in events that made them uncomfortable, under the threat of job insecurity.
One of the most disturbing incidents cited in the lawsuit occurred during a night out in Amsterdam's notorious Red-Light District. The dancers claim that Lizzo invited them to a local hotspot called Bananenbar, known for its explicit adult entertainment. Despite attendance not being mandatory, the plaintiffs felt compelled to participate due to the implicit expectation to endear themselves to Lizzo for job security.
At the club, Davis alleges she was pressured by Lizzo to touch one of the nude performers, which she initially resisted but eventually acquiesced to end the chants. The dancers also claim they were unable to avoid witnessing Lizzo's public displays of affection with her boyfriend, Myke Wright.
The lawsuit further alleges that Lizzo and her team questioned a dancer's commitment to her role, making her feel she needed to explain her weight gain and disclose intimate personal details about her life to keep her job. The dancers also claim that Quigley, the dance team captain, pushed her Christian beliefs onto them and publicly disclosed Davis's virginity, an intensely personal detail.
The plaintiffs are seeking redress for the alleged harassment and mistreatment they endured while working for Lizzo. The singer and her team have yet to respond to the allegations. The case serves as a stark reminder that the public image of celebrities may not always align with their private actions, and that all employees have the right to a respectful and safe working environment.