In a legal setback for Grammy-winning artist Lizzo, a judge denied her request to throw out a lawsuit filed by three of her former dancers on Friday.
Judge Mark H. Epstein ruled in a 34-page decision in Los Angeles County Superior Court, indicating that the lawsuit would proceed despite Lizzo’s attempt to dismiss it under the anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) statute.
Lizzo’s Anti-SLAPP Defense Partially Acknowledged
The anti-SLAPP statute is designed to allow defendants to swiftly dismiss meritless suits that pose a threat to their right to free speech under the First Amendment.
While parts of Lizzo’s argument were acknowledged by the judge, it was ultimately deemed insufficient to warrant the complete dismissal of the case.
Crystal Williams, Noelle Rodriguez, The plaintiffs, and Arianna Davis filed the lawsuit in August, alleging that Lizzo had created a hostile work environment and sexually harassed her employees.
The judge did, however, choose to dismiss some of the accusations, including the claim that Lizzo had fat-shamed one of her dancers.
Interestingly, the judge ruled that Lizzo’s requirement for dancers to participate in a nude photoshoot for her show “Watch Out for the Big Grrrls” fell under the protection of anti-SLAPP law as a part of the “creative process” and constituted protected free speech.
Read more: Justice Served: Jan. 6 Rioter Apprehended After Facial Recognition Identifies Throwback Hat
Judge Partially Dismisses Harassment Claims
In a statement, Lizzo’s spokesperson, Stefan Friedman, expressed gratitude for the judge’s decision to throw out parts of the plaintiffs’ claims.
Friedman asserted Lizzo’s commitment to spreading positivity and lifting others up, promising to appeal the elements retained in the lawsuit.
The original lawsuit not only targeted Lizzo but also dance captain Shirlene Quigley and Lizzo’s production company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc. The complaint alleged that Quigley proselytized to the dancers, creating a hostile work environment.
While Lizzo has vehemently denied all allegations, this legal battle represents a significant challenge for the artist.
This ruling follows a similar attempt by Lizzo to have a second lawsuit, filed by a former employee – a fashion designer – thrown out at the end of last year.
The outcome of that case remains pending, and Lizzo is determined to contest these legal challenges.
Read more: Ancient Bones Found Under Castle Offer New Clues To Evolution
