On Dec. 2, 2024, Lizzo celebrated a significant legal victory in her ongoing battle against former stylist Asha Daniels. A Los Angeles judge ruled that Lizzo cannot be sued individually in a racial and sexual harassment lawsuit filed by Daniels, as the claims have already been directed at Lizzo’s touring and payroll companies.
Background of the lawsuit
The lawsuit, initiated by Daniels in September 2023, followed closely on the heels of another lawsuit filed by three of Lizzo’s former dancers. Both lawsuits depict a troubling narrative of a hostile work environment and allegations of sexual harassment within Lizzo’s team.
Judge’s ruling and implications
According to Deadline, U.S. District Judge Fernando Aenlle-Rocha agreed with a motion to dismiss several of Daniels’ claims due to jurisdictional issues. The ruling also specified that Lizzo and her tour manager, Carlina Gugliotta, would be removed from the lawsuit entirely, although the companies associated with Lizzo remain under scrutiny.
Despite this ruling, Daniels’ attorney, Ron Zambrano, clarified that Lizzo and her tour manager are still required to provide depositions regarding the case. “Lizzo’s company was not dismissed,” Zambrano stated, per Rolling Stone. “The lawsuit still exists as to Lizzo’s companies … Lizzo and her tour manager will still be deposed in this matter.” This indicates that while Lizzo may not face individual legal repercussions, the scrutiny on her business practices continues.
Lizzo’s response to allegations
Lizzo has publicly denied the allegations, asserting that the claims stem from former employees who were reprimanded for their behavior on tour. In a statement addressing the lawsuit, she expressed her frustration over the sensationalized narratives being circulated. “These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional,” she stated.
Martin D. Singer, Lizzo’s attorney, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, stating, “We are very pleased that the court dismissed every claim against Lizzo and the overtime wages claim against all of our clients including Big Grrrl Touring in this specious lawsuit filed by Asha Daniels.” Singer also mentioned that they are considering legal action against Daniels and her attorneys for malicious prosecution.
Impact on Lizzo’s career
The legal battles have taken a toll on Lizzo, prompting her to contemplate leaving the music industry altogether. In an emotional Instagram post from March 2024, she shared her struggles with public perception and the relentless scrutiny she faces. “I’m getting tired of putting up with being dragged by everyone in my life and on the internet. All I want is to make music and make people happy and help the world be a little better than how I found it,” she wrote. Lizzo’s candid remarks highlight the emotional burden that comes with being in the public eye, especially amid such serious allegations.
While Lizzo has achieved a legal victory by having the individual claims against her dismissed, the ongoing lawsuit against her companies signifies that the battle is far from over. As the case continues to unfold, it raises important questions about workplace culture and accountability in the entertainment industry. Lizzo’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by artists, particularly Black women, in navigating a landscape fraught with scrutiny and allegations.
