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When music icon Lizzo decided to address the allegations and lawsuit that shook her world in 2023, she chose to do so on Keke Palmer‘s podcast, Baby, This is Keke Palmer. This exclusive interview, the only one she’s given on the topic, speaks volumes about the trust and respect Lizzo has for Keke, an artist and cultural force in her own right. The conversation was candid, heartfelt, and filled with lessons about resilience, boundaries, and personal growth. In her characteristic vibrant and authentic style, Keke provided a safe space for Lizzo to recount the darkest chapter of her career while reaffirming her humanity.
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Addressing the Allegations
Lizzo’s world was turned upside down in 2023 when three former backup dancers filed a lawsuit accusing her of sexual harassment, assault, weight shaming, and creating a hostile work environment, among other claims. “I was completely surprised, really,” Lizzo told Keke. “I was very deeply hurt, because, you know, these were three ex-dancers. … These were people that I gave opportunities to. … So I was like, what?”
The allegations, which made headlines worldwide, were later dismissed by a judge, but not before wreaking havoc on Lizzo’s mental health and public image. Lizzo emphasized the importance of understanding the legal distinction: “The case was dismissed, not dropped, meaning a judge reviewed the evidence and found it insufficient to proceed.” She added, “We’re continuing to fight the other claims until they’re all dismissed.” This dismissal, she said, validated her stance and provided a sense of vindication.
Setting the Record Straight
One of the most controversial claims revolved around an incident at Amsterdam’s Banana Bar. Lizzo offered clarity, recounting how she had gone to the bar and invited others to join her. “Banana Bar is a very popular bar in Amsterdam,” she explained. “Everybody came through, we had a great time. … The performer is very consensual, but she’s also performing. So, she’ll ask you, ‘Would you like to do this? Would you like to do that?’ If you say yes, you do it. If you say no, she’s like, ‘Okay,’ moves on.”
Lizzo’s account painted a picture of a night that, while wild, was rooted in personal choice. “There were moments where there was some wild stuff that happened, but everybody had a great time,” she noted.
Betrayal and Emotional Toll
The emotional weight of the lawsuit was palpable as Lizzo described the betrayal she felt. “That period of my life was very dark because of the … feeling of betrayal,” she confessed. “The wind was knocked out of me by people that I cared about.” The accusations not only challenged her trust but also forced her to step back from social media.
“I was off of social media from August 2023 to January 2024,” Lizzo shared. “I stayed out of the discourse. … I don’t want to… I’m not a victim, so I’m not going to use the word traumatized, but I can’t find another word for just, like, when I see things about me now or … even if I see a word that looks like my name, I get physically unwell.”
Lessons in Boundaries
A key takeaway for Lizzo was the importance of setting and maintaining professional boundaries. Reflecting on the experience, she said, “The boundaries that I have now are as wide … as the ocean! I don’t think that people who I employ should even be privy to how I am in a bar at this point.”
She and Keke explored the nuances of professional boundaries, with Keke affirming, “There’s a difference between having boundaries and professional boundaries and … thinking you’re better than other people.” Lizzo agreed, adding, “Maybe we should do a little bit more [to establish boundaries]. … This experience taught me how to set those kinds of boundaries, not just to protect them, but to protect myself.”
Resilience Through Music
Despite the challenges, Lizzo turned to her art for healing. “Music saved my life straight up,” she said. “A lot of the music is me talking things through. I have a lot of angry songs, a lot of dark songs, a lot of moody songs, a lot of sad songs.”
Her upcoming album, set for release this year, reflects this journey. “My album is done,” Lizzo revealed. “People thought I was on a gap year, but mama was in the studio, mama was hustling… writing lyrics, melodies…2025 we live!”
The Importance of the Platform
Choosing Keke Palmer’s platform for this exclusive interview was no coincidence. The trust between the two women is evident, and Lizzo’s choice highlights Keke’s growing role as a cultural leader and trusted voice. Keke’s empathetic yet probing questions allowed Lizzo to tell her story on her terms.
In a moment when Lizzo needed someone to believe in her humanity, Keke delivered. The interview felt less like a celebrity tell-all and more like an intimate conversation between two friends who understand the weight of being Black women in the spotlight.
Moving Forward
Lizzo has emerged not only as a survivor but as a stronger, more self-aware individual. Her story is a reminder of the complexities of fame, the power of setting boundaries, and the healing potential of art.
As the world awaits her new album, Lizzo’s conversation with Keke Palmer will undoubtedly remain a defining moment in her career. It’s a story of courage, growth, and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood—told by two women who continue to inspire us all.
Watch the full podcast episode below:
Cover photo: Lizzo Opens Up About 2023 Lawsuit in an Exclusive Interview with Keke Palmer / Credit: Baby, This is Keke Palmer via YouTube
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