A Los Angeles judge has dismissed fat-shaming allegations from a 2023 lawsuit filed against pop artist Lizzo, whose legal name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, by three of her former dancers. While these specific claims were dismissed, the lawsuit is proceeding on other allegations, including those of sexual harassment.
Court Ruling Details
The dismissal concerns claims that Lizzo fired the dancers due to weight gain. Lizzo addressed this development in a video statement posted on social media, stating, "There was no evidence that I fired them because they gained weight." She further clarified that the dancers were reportedly terminated for "taking a private recording of me without my consent and sending it off to ex-employees."
Despite the dismissal of the fat-shaming claims, the broader lawsuit against Lizzo and her production company is continuing. A Los Angeles judge ruled last year that the majority of the case, specifically concerning sexual harassment allegations, could move forward.
Allegations by Former Dancers
The three former dancers—Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez—allege they were subjected to sexual harassment during the period of 2021 to 2023. Their claims include being pressured into attending sex shows and interacting with nude performers.
Specific incidents cited in court documents include an allegation that Lizzo "pressured Ms Davis to touch the breasts" of a dancer in an Amsterdam nightclub. Ms. Davis reportedly complied with this instruction due to concerns that it could jeopardize her position or future employment. The lawsuit also details claims that dancers were asked to consume fruit from the naked bodies of sex club workers.
Legal Arguments and Proceedings
Lizzo's legal team has previously characterized the lawsuit as a "fabricated sob story." Over the summer, Lizzo's lawyers appealed the decision to allow the sexual harassment claims to proceed to trial. They argued that group outings were part of the singer's creative process and should be protected under First Amendment free speech provisions.
In response, Ari Stiller, a lawyer representing the dancers, contended that merely claiming inspiration was insufficient to shield such activities. Stiller advocated for the claims to be heard in court and proceed to trial.