Three of Lizzo’s tour dancers have filed a lawsuit against the singer, accusing her of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment through sexual, racial, and religious harassment. The incidents allegedly occurred between 2021 and 2023.
In the lawsuit, the dancers claim that Lizzo criticized one dancer’s weight gain and later berated and fired her for recording a meeting. They also alleged that Lizzo pressured one dancer to touch a nude performer at a club in Amsterdam and subjected several dancers to an “excruciating” 12-hour audition after making false accusations about their behavior.
Furthermore, the lawsuit accuses Lizzo’s dance captain, Shirlene Quigley, of pushing her Christian beliefs on other performers, denigrating those who had premarital sex, and engaging in inappropriate sexual discussions.
The lawsuit names Lizzo, her production company, and Quigley as defendants, with claims including sexual harassment, creation of a hostile work environment, false imprisonment, and interference with prospective economic advantage.
Lizzo’s representatives have not yet responded to the allegations.
The suit also details an incident at an Amsterdam club where Lizzo allegedly encouraged cast members to engage in explicit acts with nude performers, causing discomfort and distress among the dancers.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit believe that Lizzo was aware of complaints against Quigley, but it is not specified whether she knew about Quigley’s alleged behavior.
The dancers involved in the lawsuit participated in Lizzo’s dance competition show in 2021 before joining her tour. They claim that Lizzo’s treatment of them goes against her public persona as an advocate for body positivity and self-love.
The lawsuit seeks damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and attorneys’ fees. Meanwhile, Lizzo continues her tour, which has taken her to various locations worldwide.
As this is an ongoing legal matter, Lizzo’s representatives have not yet provided a comment on the allegations.
