Former Dancers Speak Out Against Lizzo: Allegations of Harassment and Discrimination Emerge
In recent developments, two former dancers for renowned artist Lizzo, Arianna Davis and Crystal Williams, have come forward to shed light on their experiences with the singer, whose real name is Melissa Jefferson. The duo has filed a lawsuit against Lizzo, accusing her of sexual harassment, racial discrimination, and creating a hostile work environment.
Despite Lizzo’s championing of body positivity, Arianna Davis revealed that she was subjected to fat-shaming by Jefferson. The singer’s body-positive rhetoric seemed to contradict the mistreatment Davis claims she endured.
Both Davis and Williams participated in Lizzo’s Amazon Prime reality TV show, “Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” but they vehemently denied accusations of “drinking on the job.” Davis clarified in an interview with CBS News that alcohol was not even allowed in their dressing room.
In a distressing incident, Davis recalled being pressured by Lizzo to go to a club and unwillingly touch the breasts of a nude performer while the crowd chanted her name. The lawsuit describes how the uncomfortable chant grew louder, leaving Davis feeling mortified and distressed by the situation.
Both dancers expressed fear in speaking out earlier, as they were concerned about potential repercussions on their careers. Williams, in particular, was eventually fired in a hotel lobby, leading her to voice her grievances about the contradicting actions of Lizzo, whom she believed to be at odds with her own professed values.
The lawsuit also includes Noelle Rodriguez, another dancer, who claims she was coerced into conforming to the dogmatic religious beliefs of Lizzo’s dance captain, Shirlene Quigley. Rodriguez cites instances of being forced to lead group prayers, making her feel compelled to participate despite it not being an official requirement for the team.
Shirlene Quigley, in addition to these allegations, faces accusations of making constant sexually inappropriate comments, adding to the gravity of the claims made against the artist and her team.
As of now, Lizzo and her representatives have not publicly commented on the allegations, leaving the situation under scrutiny and open for further investigation.
The brave voices of Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez highlight the importance of addressing harassment and discrimination in the entertainment industry. Their experiences call for a critical examination of the treatment of dancers and performers, and the need for an environment that upholds the values of equality, respect, and inclusion.
