Famous singer Lizzo broke her silence on Thursday regarding allegations of sexual harassment made against her by former dancers from her team in Los Angeles court.
She posted a lengthy statement to Instagram that pushed back against what she referenced as the “false accusations” put forward in the form of a lawsuit. “These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing. My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned,” she said.
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Lizzo expressed concern over her tainted image in the wake of the allegations.
“My character has been criticized. Usually I choose not to respond to false accusations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed,” she said.
Former dancers that were part of her team claimed Lizzo created a hostile work environment and sexually harassed them by pushing them to act in uncomfortable ways in a strip club, which was one of many claims they made. It was also alleged that Lizzo body-shamed them and threatened their jobs if they didn’t act in accordance to her demands.
Lizzo addressed the dancers’ claims on social media.
“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,” she said.
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She then defended herself and her intentions as both a person and an artist.
“With passion comes hard work and high standards. Sometimes I have to make hard decisions but its never my intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or like they aren’t valued as part of the team,” she wrote.
“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.,” Lizzo said.(RELATED: Jury Clears Kevin Spacey Of Sexual Assault Charges In UK)
She concluded by saying, “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.”
The former dancers filed litigation against Lizzo in Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday.