Photo: Instagram.com/lizzobeeating
Two weeks have transpired since allegations surfaced against Lizzo, her dance captain, and her production company, Big Grrrl Touring Inc. Both Lizzo’s dance captain and Lizzo herself have issued responses via their respective Instagram accounts. And, on August 17, Lizzo’s production company took to Instagram to issue an official statement of their own.
In the statement, the company reflected on the remarkable journey of The Special Tour, expressing their gratitude for the opportunity to share the stage with Lizzo. They also extend their appreciation to Lizzo for demolishing barriers for women, “THANK YOU to Lizzo for shattering limitations and kicking in the door way for the Big Grrrl & Big Boii Dancers to do what we love!”
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Despite the statement being signed off by “Love, the Big Grrrls & Big Boiiis” and including brief quotes from both of them as a collective, there remains a degree of ambiguity about the level of their direct involvement in its creation. The incorporation of these quotes offers a glimpse into their sentiments but leaves space for interpretation regarding their actual contribution.
The unfolding controversy resulted in an incident involving Beyoncé where the singer had noticeably omitted Lizzo’s name from the Queen’s Remix of “Break My Soul” following the initial emergence of the allegations. However, during a recent concert in Atlanta this Monday, Beyoncé reinstated her name as she exclaimed, “Lizzo! I love you, Lizzo!”
Earlier this month, Shirlene Quigley, Lizzo’s dance captain, released a separate statement reaffirming her unwavering support for her team. “These accusations are not only baseless but also profoundly hurtful,” it read. Lizzo’s official response challenges the credibility of the allegations, characterizing them as “sensationalized stories.” She firmly asserts her understanding of the pain caused by body shaming and unequivocally denies any involvement in criticizing or dismissing an employee due to their weight.
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Notably, Lizzo’s response selectively addresses only certain facets of the allegations. The Grammy-awarded singer had not addressed the alleged 12-hour audition/rehearsal, the nude photoshoot, or the claims of religious discrimination made by her dance captain, Shirlene Quigley.
Read more about the lawsuit here: Lizzo is Being Sued By Ex-Dancers for Alleged Sexual Harassment and Creating a Toxic Work Environment
