The highly anticipated 2023 Made In America festival, where Lizzo was slated to co-headline alongside SZA, has been abruptly canceled following a sexual harassment lawsuit against the Grammy-winning singer. In a tweet, the festival organizers explained that due to severe circumstances beyond their control, the event would no longer take place. This decision, they emphasized, was not made lightly but after careful consideration. The Made In America festival has a reputation for delivering exceptional experiences to music enthusiasts and concert-goers, and the organizers remain committed to upholding this standard.
Refunds for Ticket Holders and Future Plans
All ticket holders will be eligible for a full refund, which will be processed through the original point of purchase. Although fans may be left disheartened by the festival’s cancellation, the organizers reassured them that the annual event is expected to return to Philadelphia’s Benjamin Franklin Parkway in 2024. This news will undoubtedly provide solace to festival-goers who have eagerly awaited the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere and diverse performances that Made In America has come to represent.
A Brief History of the Festival and its Ownership
Jay-Z’s Roc Nation has been responsible for running the Made In America festival since 2012. Having gained popularity over the years, the event has only been canceled once before, in 2020, due to the widespread effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The festival has consistently curated a lineup of exceptional talent, attracting renowned artists and emerging stars alike. The 2023 edition was poised to feature not only Lizzo and SZA as headliners but also an array of diverse performers such as Latto, Coco Jones, Ice Spice, Miguel, Tems, Metro Boomin, Coi Lera, Lil Yachty, Doechii, Lola Brooke, and many more.
The Absence of Mentioning Lizzo’s Legal Troubles
Surprisingly, despite the recent lawsuit filed against Lizzo, the festival organizers chose not to address the ongoing legal drama in their statement regarding the festival’s cancellation. Such a decision may raise eyebrows, as it could be seen as omitting pertinent information that festival-goers have a right to know and consider when forming opinions and making decisions about attending future events.
The Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Lizzo
The lawsuit against Lizzo was brought forward by three of her former backup dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez. In their legal complaint, the dancers accuse the “Truth Hurts” singer of subjecting them to weight-shaming, sexually denigrating behavior, and pressuring them to participate in disturbing sex shows. The complaint alleges that during a concert trip to Amsterdam’s Red Light District in February 2023, Lizzo encouraged inappropriate and offensive actions. These included inviting the dancers to touch nude performers, catch dildos launched from the performers’ vaginas, and eat bananas protruding from their genitals.
Lizzo’s Response and Defense
In response to the allegations, Lizzo vehemently denied the claims, stating in a written statement that her work ethic, morals, and respectfulness had been called into question. She emphasized that she typically chooses not to respond to false allegations but found these particular accusations so outrageous that she had to address them. The singer acknowledged her open expression of sexuality but made it clear that she would not allow others to manipulate and distort her image. Lizzo expressed her disappointment in the former employees who had already admitted to inappropriate and unprofessional behavior while touring with her, insinuating their lack of credibility.
Discontent from the Plaintiffs
Davis, Williams, and Rodriguez, the dancers who filed the lawsuit against Lizzo, expressed their dissatisfaction with her response. Through their attorney, Ron Zambrano, they released a statement criticizing Lizzo for being dismissive and failing her brand and fans. They argued that Lizzo’s actions had not only made them feel uncomfortable but also demoralized them, violated the law, and damaged her dancers’ morale. The dancers’ disappointment appears to stem from what they perceive as Lizzo’s unwillingness to take responsibility for her alleged behavior, instead opting to discredit their claims.
The cancellation of the 2023 Made In America festival and the sexual harassment lawsuit against Lizzo have led to a complex and contentious situation. The abrupt cancellation of the festival undoubtedly disappointed fans, who were eagerly anticipating the event. The absence of any mention of the ongoing legal drama in the organizers’ statement is puzzling, as it could be seen as a decision to withhold vital information from attendees. Lizzo’s response to the lawsuit and the subsequent criticism from the plaintiffs further deepens the controversy surrounding the case. As the legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact Lizzo’s reputation and future career endeavors.