Lizzo, the powerhouse singer and four-time Grammy Award winner is taking a step back to focus on her mental well-being. Amid ongoing legal battles and public scrutiny, she recently announced that she is “taking a gap year” to protect her peace. The announcement comes as she faces a sexual harassment lawsuit brought against her by three former backup dancers, a case that continues to unfold in the courts.
The news of her hiatus was shared on Instagram, where Lizzo also posted a video of herself in a black one-piece swimsuit, standing barefoot on a rainy balcony, seemingly at a resort in Bali. The video, showing a serene and reflective Lizzo, has sparked a wave of reactions from fans, particularly regarding her noticeable weight loss.
Lizzo’s transformation has been a topic of discussion among her fans. One supporter voiced their frustration with the shifting opinions, saying, “I don’t care what nobody says. Lizzo was gorgeous with the weight, and now, since she lost it, the haters are her biggest fans now, and I don’t like y’all because it’s not genuine”, told The Mirror. Another echoed this sentiment, predicting that those who once criticized her would now praise her appearance: “Soon everybody [is] gonna be talking about how great she looks and how fine she is after they’ve been dogging her about her weight this whole time.”
However, not all fans are thrilled with the changes. One commented, “[Damn] my baby is losing weight. I’m not feeling that. Give me the two years ago, Lizzo. You [are] still sexy, though I can adjust.” This mixed reaction highlights the divided opinions among her fan base regarding her transformation.
Despite the focus on her physical changes, many fans have expressed support for Lizzo’s decision to take time for herself. “You deserve it—Enjoy! Ignore anyone who does not bring you joy,” one fan wrote, while another urged her to “protect your peace above everything else.”
Lizzo’s decision to step back comes at a crucial time, as the legal case against her progresses. The lawsuit, filed by former dancers Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, includes serious allegations of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment. The accusations detail a disturbing incident during a tour stop in Amsterdam, where the dancers claim they were coerced into participating in degrading acts at a strip club.
Lizzo has vehemently denied the allegations, calling them “false,” “unbelievable,” and “too outrageous.” Despite her defense, the case has been allowed to move forward after a judge dismissed some claims but ruled that the rest should proceed. Lizzo’s legal team had attempted to use California’s anti-SLAPP statute to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the claims were an attempt to “silence” her. However, the judge ruled that the remaining allegations were serious enough to warrant further examination.
As Lizzo navigates these legal challenges and takes time away from the public eye, her fans remain divided but largely supportive, wishing her peace and strength during this period of reflection and self-care.