'I'm not the villain': Lizzo speaks out after ex dancers sue her for ‘hostile working environment’
ITV News' Mark McQuillan has the latest as Lizzo denies allegations she created a hostile work environment
Lizzo has issued a statement after it was announced she was being sued by three former dancers over allegations of sexual harassment and the creation of a hostile work environment.
The last few days have been “gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing”, the musician said in a statement.
“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.”
Her statement comes days after three former dancers sued Lizzo and her production company over allegations of sexual harassment and the creation of a hostile work environment.
The star is also accused of "fat shaming" a dancer, despite being well known for the body positive messages behind her songs.
The complaint, filed in Los Angeles on Tuesday, was brought against the Truth Hurts singer, real name Melissa Viviane Jefferson, and her production company Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc (BGBT).
It also highlights alleged behaviour from Shirlene Quigley, the captain of Lizzo’s dance team.
The three dancers – Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez – claim they were subject to sexual, religious and racial harassment, disability discrimination, assault and false imprisonment, among other allegations.
ITV News Entertainment Reporter Rishi Davda explains the allegations
In a statement shared on social media, the pop singer wrote: "These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing.
"My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticised.
"Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.
"These sensationalised stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behaviour on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.
"As an artist I have always been very passionate about what I do. I take my music and my performances seriously because at the end of the day I only want to put out the best art that represents me and my fans.
"With passion comes hard work and high standards. Sometimes I have to make hard decisions but it's never my intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or like they aren't valued as an important part of the team.
"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.
"I am very open with my sexuality and expressing myself but I cannot accept or allow people to use that openness to make me out to be something I am not.
"There is nothing I take more seriously than the respect we deserve as women in the world.
"I know what it feels like to be body shamed on a daily basis and would absolutely never criticise or terminate an employee because of their weight.
"I'm hurt but I will not let the good work I've done in the world be overshadowed by this. I want to thank everyone who has reached out in support to lift me up during this difficult time."
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