Judge Dismisses Claims Against Singer, But Lawsuit Against Touring Company Continues
Lizzo has achieved a significant legal victory in her ongoing battle with stylist Asha Daniels, who has accused the Grammy-winning singer and her management team of racial and sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, and failure to pay overtime during Lizzo’s 2023 tour. The lawsuit, which has garnered widespread attention, alleges that Daniels was subjected to inappropriate and discriminatory treatment while working as a wardrobe assistant for the singer’s tour.
On Monday, a federal judge in Los Angeles ruled in Lizzo’s favor, determining that Daniels could not sue Lizzo personally. The judge clarified that Lizzo’s touring and payroll companies were the official employers in this case, thereby absolving Lizzo of direct personal liability. However, Big Grrrl Big Touring Inc., the company responsible for Lizzo’s tours, remains a defendant in the ongoing case. The ruling marks a significant milestone in the legal proceedings, but Daniels’ lawsuit is far from over, as the case continues to move through the legal system.
The judge, US District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, dismissed all seven causes of action against Lizzo, as well as claims against her tour manager, Carlina Gugliotta. The ruling also granted a partial motion to dismiss some claims, particularly those that arose from Daniels’ work during the European leg of the tour. Because Daniels worked outside of the United States during this period, American employment laws were deemed not to apply, further complicating her claims.
Daniels, who worked as a fashion designer and wardrobe assistant during the tour, claims that Lizzo created a toxic and unsafe work environment by fostering a “sexually charged workplace culture.” Additionally, Daniels accused Lizzo’s wardrobe manager of making “racist and fatphobic” remarks, including mocking black women in the entourage. These allegations have sparked significant public debate, with many fans and industry figures taking sides in the controversy.
Lizzo has firmly denied the accusations, with her legal team labeling Daniels’ claims as an “absurd publicity stunt.” A spokesperson for the singer characterized Daniels as a disgruntled former employee with “meritless and salacious” allegations, pointing to the fact that Daniels had already been let go from the tour before bringing the lawsuit. The spokesperson also emphasized that Lizzo, known for her advocacy of body positivity, had long been committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for her team. Lizzo’s defenders argue that the claims made by Daniels are part of a broader pattern of sensationalized stories aimed at tarnishing the singer’s reputation.
This lawsuit is not the first legal challenge Lizzo has faced in recent months. Last August, three former dancers from her tour filed a lawsuit accusing the singer of sexual harassment, fat-shaming, and creating a hostile work environment. The dancers also alleged that Lizzo’s management team was complicit in the mistreatment. These allegations, which echoed Daniels’ claims, further fueled public scrutiny of Lizzo and her management practices. Lizzo responded to these accusations by categorically denying them, saying that the claims came from employees who had already been reprimanded for inappropriate and unprofessional behavior on tour.
Lizzo’s legal team is currently seeking to have the dancers’ lawsuit dismissed. The dancers, in turn, have requested a jury trial, signaling that they are prepared to continue their fight in court. While the outcome of the dancers’ lawsuit remains uncertain, it is clear that Lizzo is facing significant legal challenges.
Despite these controversies, Lizzo has maintained her popularity and reassured her fans that she would not be stepping away from the spotlight. In April, she took to social media to address the constant online criticism she has faced. In a post, Lizzo wrote, “I quit,” expressing frustration with the relentless targeting of her appearance and character. However, she quickly clarified the statement in a follow-up video, explaining that she was not quitting her career but was instead “quitting giving any negative energy attention.” Lizzo’s willingness to continue performing and engaging with her fans, despite the legal battles and public criticism, demonstrates her resilience in the face of adversity.
In addition to her legal troubles, Lizzo’s success in the music industry continues. Known for empowering messages about body positivity and self-love, she has built a massive following and a successful career, marked by hit songs such as “Truth Hurts” and “Juice.” Lizzo’s position as an influential cultural figure and role model has made her a target of both admiration and criticism, which will likely continue to shape her public image in the years to come.
As Lizzo navigates these legal challenges, the outcome of the various lawsuits she faces will likely have far-reaching implications for her career and public image. Despite the controversies, Lizzo’s fans remain fiercely loyal, and the ongoing legal disputes have not significantly dented her popularity or influence in the entertainment industry. The singer has shown remarkable tenacity in maintaining her position in the public eye, proving that she is determined to continue her work in the face of significant adversity.