Lizzo has finally broken her silence after months of intense scrutiny, firing back at critics with a defiant declaration: 'I'm a fat, black, happy girl' – and that's exactly what they don't like. The chart-topping superstar, known for her empowering anthems and unapologetic attitude, took to the mic to address the whirlwind of criticism and lawsuits that have threatened to derail her career.
The storm began brewing just two days after she wrapped up a record-breaking world tour on 30th July 2023, which had amassed an astonishing £68.3 million (approximately $86.3 million) in ticket sales across 80 shows spanning continents. But the celebrations were short-lived as three former dancers came out with explosive allegations of sexual harassment, fostering a hostile work environment, religious and racial discrimination – and good old-fashioned fat-shaming.
The backlash was swift and merciless, with social media platforms ablaze with criticism. And yet, Lizzo went into hiding, fuelling speculation about her well-being and sparking whispers of a personal breakdown. Her latest album, 'Bitch', received a lukewarm reception, failing to crack the Top 100 charts in either the UK or US – a sobering reminder that public opinion can shift like the wind.
Just when it seemed things couldn't get any more gruelling, a judge ruled in December that the fat-shaming allegations against Lizzo lacked substance to proceed to trial. But the other claims remain outstanding – and make no mistake, Lizzo is not about to let her name be dragged through the mud without a fight.
The woman who's built an empire on body positivity and self-love has been open about the dark times she endured: 'I became deeply suicidal,' she confessed in a recent essay on Substack. But it seems Lizzo has found a way to rise from the ashes, refusing to let her detractors bring her down.