Lizzo Pushes Back Against Online Critics: “Feeling Unwanted by the World”

Lizzo’s shocking announcement on Friday sent ripples through the music industry and her legion of fans worldwide. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the renowned singer expressed her weariness with the constant scrutiny and criticism she faces both online and in her personal life.

“I’m getting tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the internet,” she posted to her Instagram. “All I want is to make music and make people happy and help the world be a little better than how I found it.”

The Grammy-winning artist, known for hits like “Truth Hurts,” bared her soul as she lamented feeling “dragged” by those around her, including on social media platforms. Despite her desire to spread joy through her music and make a positive impact on the world, Lizzo revealed feeling increasingly isolated and unwanted amidst what she perceives as a barrage of falsehoods tarnishing her reputation.

Central to Lizzo’s distress are the ongoing legal battles she finds herself entangled in. Notably, she is embroiled in a sexual harassment lawsuit brought forth by three former dancers, alleging a hostile work environment and inappropriate behavior on Lizzo’s part—an accusation vehemently denied by the singer. Additionally, another ex-employee has filed a lawsuit accusing Lizzo of permitting bullying, harassment, and racial discrimination within her team, further exacerbating her turmoil.

In a poignant declaration, Lizzo expressed profound frustration at being reduced to a punchline due to her appearance and having her character dissected by strangers who lack understanding of her true essence. She emphasized her unwillingness to endure such treatment any longer, unequivocally stating, “I QUIT.”

Despite the gravity of her decision, Lizzo’s team has remained tight-lipped in response to inquiries from TODAY.com, leaving fans and industry insiders alike to ponder the implications of her departure. This abrupt turn of events comes at a time when Lizzo’s influence extends beyond music, with her political activism and burgeoning fashion endeavors, such as her clothing line Yitty, thrusting her into the spotlight in diverse spheres.

Even amidst personal tribulations, Lizzo’s commitment to social causes remained unwavering. Just a day before her shocking announcement, she participated in a high-profile fundraiser for President Joe Biden in New York City, rubbing shoulders with luminaries including former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama at the iconic Radio City Music Hall.

As fans grapple with the news of Lizzo’s potential exit from the music scene, her profound impact on the industry and broader cultural landscape is undeniable. Whether this marks a definitive farewell or a temporary hiatus remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Lizzo’s indomitable spirit and unapologetic authenticity have left an indelible mark on music history.

Lizzo Opens Up About Body Image Journey and Yitty’s New Swimwear Line

In a recent interview with the New York Times, Lizzo shared insights into her clothing brand Yitty’s latest swimwear line, which draws inspiration from shapewear. Despite ongoing speculation about her future in both the fashion and music industries, Lizzo refrained from addressing the pending lawsuit, choosing instead to focus on her creative endeavors.

During the conversation, Lizzo enthusiastically promoted Yitty’s innovative line while also discussing her personal journey with body image. She candidly admitted to a deliberate, gradual approach to weight loss, emphasizing the importance of self-care, particularly in the absence of touring obligations.

Acknowledging the fluctuating nature of her relationship with her body, Lizzo revealed the complexities of her self-perception, confessing that her feelings toward her body vary from day to day.

While once celebrated as a beacon of body positivity, Lizzo disclosed a shift towards embracing “body neutrality,” a concept she believes better reflects her evolving mindset. She explained that the traditional notion of body positivity has evolved into a more inclusive and nuanced perspective, aligning more closely with the principles of body neutrality.

Despite the challenges she faces, Lizzo remains committed to her journey of self-love and acceptance, embracing the fluidity of her emotions and the evolving discourse surrounding body image.

Lizzo Faces Lawsuit Alleging Hostile Work Environment and Sexual Harassment Claims

In August 2023, three of Lizzo’s former backup dancers—Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez—filed a lawsuit alleging that the singer had created a hostile work environment and subjected her employees to sexual harassment.

Lizzo vehemently denied all allegations against her in the suit, labeling them as “false,” “unbelievable,” and “outrageous.”

The dancers’ lawsuit also implicated dance captain Shirlene Quigley and Lizzo’s production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc., as defendants. It further alleged that Quigley had proselytized to the dancers and shamed individuals who had engaged in premarital sex.

Quigley refuted the accusations, branding them as “baseless” and expressing confidence that the truth would emerge in due course.

In February 2024, a judge in Los Angeles County Superior Court declined Lizzo’s request to dismiss the backup dancers’ lawsuit. However, Judge Mark H. Epstein did dismiss certain claims against Lizzo and her team, including allegations of fat-shaming by the singer.

In response, Lizzo’s spokesperson, Stefan Friedman, expressed gratitude that the judge had dismissed “all or part of four of the plaintiffs’ causes of action.” Friedman affirmed Lizzo’s commitment to lifting others up and spreading positivity, indicating plans to appeal the remaining elements of the lawsuit with confidence in a favorable outcome.

Lizzo Faces Lawsuit Alleging Bullying and Discrimination on Tour

Lizzo faces another lawsuit, this time from former employee Asha Daniels, a fashion designer, filed in September 2023 in Los Angeles County Superior Court. Daniels alleges that during Lizzo’s tour, bullying, harassment, and racial discrimination were permitted.

According to the lawsuit, Daniels claims that wardrobe manager Amanda Nomura engaged in offensive stereotypical impressions of Black women, labeled performers as “fat,” “useless,” and “dumb,” and compelled them to change in front of a predominantly white, male stage crew who would leer at them inappropriately. Nomura could not be reached for comment by NBC News when the lawsuit was filed.

Friedman, Lizzo’s spokesperson, dismissed Daniels’ lawsuit as a “bogus, absurd publicity-stunt lawsuit” from someone who “never actually met or even spoke with Lizzo.”

“We will pay this as much attention as it deserves,” the statement read. “None.”

The lawsuit is ongoing.