The Grammy-award winning singer released a statement on Instagram calling the allegations false
Lizzo is denying allegations made in a lawsuit that says she allegedly pressured and weight shamed her former dancers, calling the accusations "sensationalized stories."
"These last few days have been gut wrenchingly difficult and overwhelmingly disappointing," Lizzo said in an Instagram post Thursday. "My work ethic, morals and respectfulness have been questioned. My character has been criticized."
The singer said she typically doesn't address "false allegations," but said "these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous not to be addressed."
In the suit, obtained by USA TODAY after it was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Tuesday, plaintiffs Crystal Williams, Arianna Davis and Noelle Rodriguez claim they were victims of sexual, racial and religious harassment, assault, false imprisonment and disability discrimination, in addition to other allegations.
She added: "As an artist I have always been very passionate about what I do. I take my music and performances seriously because at the end of the day I only want to put out the best art that represents me and my fans. With passion comes hard work and high standards. Sometimes I have to make hard decisions but it’s never my intention to make anyone feel uncomfortable or like they aren’t valued as an important part of the team."
Lizzo said she is open with self-expression and her sexuality and said there isn't anything she takes more seriously than the respect women deserve. "I know what it feels like to be body shamed on a daily basis and would absolutely never criticize or terminate an employee because of their weight."
The 35-year-old said she feels hurt but refuses to let the allegations overshadow the "good work I've done in the world."
"I am not here to be looked at as a victim, but I also know that I am not the villain that people and the media have portrayed me to be these last few days," Lizzo said.
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