- September 29, 2023
Lizzo Fires Back In Legal Battle
Lizzo, the Grammy-winning artist, is mounting a vigorous defense against ongoing legal battles, including a sexual harassment lawsuit by former dancers. Her legal team has filed a motion to dismiss the case, listing multiple defenses. A separate lawsuit from a former employee alleging harassment and discrimination adds complexity to her legal challenges.
Lizzo, the Grammy-winning artist known for her empowering messages of self-love and body positivity, is now embroiled in a legal battle as she faces a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by three of her former backup dancers. In response, Lizzo’s legal team has filed a motion to dismiss the case entirely and hold the dancers responsible for legal fees and court costs. This legal development comes as the artist faces a separate lawsuit from a former employee, Asra Daniels, alleging racial and sexual harassment, assault, and discrimination.
The Motion for Dismissal
On September 27, Lizzo’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the sexual harassment lawsuit against her. The motion outlines a series of thirty-one “affirmative defenses,” each presenting reasons why the dancers’ demand for damages should not be accepted.
These defenses are comprehensive and cover various aspects of the case. Some claim that the dancers consented to Lizzo’s alleged behavior or knew the risks involved, while others argue that Lizzo’s actions had good cause or legitimate reasons. Several defenses suggest that the dancers should have pursued mediation or taken their claims to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board instead of filing a lawsuit.
One defense even contends that Lizzo’s actions were protected under freedom of speech and/or religion rights.
The Plaintiffs’ Response
The plaintiffs’ attorney, Neama Rahmani, expressed dissatisfaction with Lizzo’s response. Rahmani described Lizzo’s answer as consisting of “boilerplate objections that have nothing to do with the case.” It is clear that both sides are gearing up for a contentious legal battle.
What’s Next For Lizzo
Lizzo’s legal team has requested a jury trial if none of the affirmative defenses succeed in getting the case dismissed. They are determined to demonstrate that Lizzo and her team have always practiced what they preach when it comes to promoting body positivity, maintaining a safe and supportive workplace, and protecting individuals from harassment.
A Second Lawsuit
In addition to the sexual harassment lawsuit, Lizzo faces another legal challenge from former employee Asra Daniels. Daniels has alleged racial and sexual harassment, assault, and discrimination. The claims in this lawsuit include disturbing group chat content that further highlights the challenges Lizzo is currently navigating in the wake of previous allegations of misconduct by former dancers.
As these legal battles unfold, Lizzo and her legal team remain steadfast in their commitment to defending her reputation and maintaining the principles of inclusivity and empowerment that have defined her career. The outcome of these lawsuits will likely have a significant impact on the artist’s future and her continued advocacy for positive change in the music industry.
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