A recent federal court ruling has significantly diminished the harassment claims made against Grammy-winning artist Lizzo, although her company remains embroiled in ongoing litigation.
Lizzo's Harassment Case: Key Ruling Favours Singer as Stylist's Claims Dismissed
Lizzo's Harassment Case: Key Ruling Favours Singer as Stylist's Claims Dismissed
Legal victory for music star as allegations against Lizzo are quashed, but the battle with her touring company continues.
In a significant turn of events, Lizzo has emerged victorious in a legal dispute with stylist Asha Daniels, who alleged racial and sexual harassment during her time working for the star's management team in 2023. A federal judge in Los Angeles ruled that Daniels could not pursue individual legal action against Lizzo, instead designating her touring and payroll companies as the official employers involved. Nevertheless, her company, Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc., remains a defendant within the ongoing legal proceedings.
Judge Fernando L Aenlle-Rocha dismissed all seven counts against Lizzo herself, along with those directed at her tour manager, Carlina Gugliotta, based on the grounds that the alleged incidents occurred in Europe, placing them outside the jurisdiction of American employment laws.
The accusations brought forth by fashion stylist Daniels suggest a toxic work environment overseen by Lizzo, including claims of racism and fatphobia among the singer’s entourage. Daniels alleges inappropriate comments and a hostile atmosphere, which Lizzo's representatives have categorically denied, labeling the claims an “absurd publicity stunt.” Lizzo's legal team has characterized Daniels as a disgruntled former employee bringing forth "meritless and salacious" allegations.
This case is not an isolated incident, as similar accusations have been previously made by three of Lizzo's former tour dancers, who accused the artist of sexual harassment and fat-shaming on multiple occasions in 2021 and 2023. Lizzo has rejected these claims, insisting such exaggerated narratives stemmed from ex-employees who couldn't acknowledge their own unprofessional conduct on tour.
Despite the challenges, Lizzo — whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson — has reassured her fans of her commitment to music, expressing her intent to redirect her focus from negative energy directed at her online. Amidst all the tumult, Lizzo has confirmed that she has no plans to retire from the music industry.
