Lizzo has released a statement after being accused of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment in a lawsuit.
The lawsuit filed against was filed against her on Tuesday (1 August), by three of her former dancers.
In a statement, Lizzo said: “These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly
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disappointing.
"My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned.
"My character has been criticized. Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.
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"These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behaviour on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional."
Lizzo added: "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 criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight.
"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."
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She continued: "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'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.”
The statement comes after the singer was accused of allegedly pressuring a dancer to touch a nude performer at a strip club.
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Dancers have also alleged that Lizzo, an advocate for body-positivity, criticized a performer's weight gain and then later allegedly fired the employee for recording a meeting.
Claims in the lawsuit brought against Lizzo, whose legal name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson, include sexual harassment, creation of a hostile work environment, false imprisonment, and interference with prospective economic advantage.
The captain of Lizzo’s dance team, Shirlene Quigley, is also named as a defendant in the lawsuit.
Kit Roberts