Lizzo has responded to the lawsuit brought against her by three former dancers by requesting its dismissal.
The dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, filed a complaint in August alleging s**ual harassment and a hostile work environment.
Lizzo and her company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, are now asking the court to dismiss the case with prejudice.
If the court does not dismiss it, they are requesting a jury trial.
The original complaint, filed on August 1 in Los Angeles court, contained various allegations against Lizzo and Big Grrrl Big Touring.
These include claims that Lizzo pressured the dancers to attend a s** show in Amsterdam, that the dance team captain engaged in behavior that made them uncomfortable, and that Lizzo made negative comments about a dancer's weight gain.
The plaintiffs also accused the touring company of singling out Black dancers and denying them bathroom breaks.
In response to the lawsuit, Lizzo's lawyers filed a document offering more than 30 defenses.
Among these defenses are claims that the plaintiffs approved or condoned the alleged acts, that the defendants' conduct was undertaken in good faith and for legitimate business purposes, and that the plaintiffs failed to follow internal anti-discrimination and harassment policies.
The defendants also argue that the case should be decided by the workers' compensation appeals board rather than the court.
Lizzo's spokesperson, Stefan Friedman, stated that this legal process will demonstrate that Lizzo and her team have always prioritized body positivity and a safe workplace.
He dismissed the claims as ridiculous and expressed confidence in proving their innocence in court.
The dancers' attorney, Neama Rahmani, responded to the filing, stating that Lizzo's objections were irrelevant to the case.
However, he highlighted that Lizzo had agreed to a jury trial, and he looked forward to presenting their case and letting the truth be decided by a panel of peers.
Lizzo had previously denied the dancers' claims shortly after the lawsuit was filed.
She stated on social media that the allegations were unbelievable and addressed the inappropriate behavior of former employees.
The dancers then appeared on CNN to reiterate their allegations and express disappointment in Lizzo's response.
It is worth noting that this is the first of two lawsuits brought against Lizzo.
Another lawsuit was filed earlier this month by clothing designer Asha Daniels, accusing Lizzo, her wardrobe manager, tour manager, and Big Grrrl Big Touring of s**ual and racial harassment, discrimination, assault, and retaliatory termination.
Despite these legal challenges, Lizzo received the Quincy Jones Humanitarian Award at the Black Music Action Coalition's 2023 gala.
In her acceptance speech, she reaffirmed her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and creating safe spaces for Black fat women.
As the legal process unfolds, Lizzo and her team will continue to defend themselves against these allegations.
