Lizzo Returns with New Album Amidst Lawsuits Questioning Her Public Image
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Pop star Lizzo is releasing a new album following a period of public absence after facing lawsuits for alleged discrimination and sexual harassment.
- The lawsuits questioned her public image, which was built on body positivity, self-love, and Black female empowerment.
- Lizzo, who gained fame with her hit "Truth Hurts" and won three Grammys in 2020, had previously been considered a role model.
Pop star Lizzo is set to release a new album, marking her return to the public eye after a hiatus. Her absence followed lawsuits filed by three former dancers and a costume designer, who accused her of sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
These legal challenges cast a shadow over Lizzo's carefully cultivated public persona. Her image, which championed body positivity, self-love, and Black female empowerment, came under intense scrutiny. While the lawsuits did not lead to a complete downfall of her career, they significantly impacted the perception of her public figure.
Lizzo, who achieved global fame with her 2019 hit "Truth Hurts" and garnered three Grammy Awards in 2020 for her debut album, had previously been lauded as a role model. The allegations, however, raised questions about the authenticity of her message and her conduct behind the scenes.
During her time away from the spotlight, rumors circulated that Lizzo might be considering a complete withdrawal from the music industry. Her upcoming album is anticipated to offer insight into her current artistic direction and how she plans to navigate her career following the controversy.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.