Podcast Summary: Baby, This is Keke Palmer – Episode: Lizzo’s Side of the Story

Introduction

In this exclusive episode of Baby, This is Keke Palmer, hosted by Keke Palmer herself, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Grammy-winning artist Lizzo. The episode delves into the recent controversies surrounding Lizzo, offering her personal insights and responses to allegations that made headlines last year.

Background on Lizzo

Keke Palmer opens the episode by highlighting Lizzo’s impressive achievements in the music industry, including her hit singles like "Juice" and "Truth Hurts," along with multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, BET Awards, and Soul Train Music Awards. Palmer sets the stage for a candid discussion about Lizzo’s journey and the challenges she has faced.

The Controversy and Lawsuit

The core of the episode centers around a lawsuit filed in August 2023 by three former backup dancers against Lizzo, her production company, and her dance captain, Shirlene Quigley. The allegations include sexual harassment, racial harassment, disability discrimination, assault, false imprisonment, and weight shaming, painting a picture of a hostile work environment.

Lizzo’s Response and Defense

Lizzo addresses the lawsuit with clarity and emotion. At [04:38], she states, “I was completely surprised,” emphasizing that she had no prior knowledge of the claims. She expresses deep hurt, especially since the dancers were individuals she respected and gave opportunities to.

When pressed on the specifics, Lizzo explains an incident at the Crazy Horse in Paris, a topless dance review venue, where she invited her dancers to watch the show. She clarifies, “It was a consensual environment,” and refutes the sexual harassment claims by describing the friendly and respectful interactions, including meeting the performers afterward ([08:14]-[09:20]).

Discussion on Boundaries and Workplace Dynamics

Keke Palmer probes into the dynamics between Lizzo as a boss and her team, questioning whether casual relationships may have led to misunderstandings or misperceptions. At [10:00], Lizzo acknowledges the challenges, stating, “I definitely... learned how to set those kinds of boundaries.” She reflects on the blurred lines between friendship and professional relationships in the entertainment industry, leading to her current stance on maintaining clear boundaries to protect both herself and her team.

Impact on Personal and Professional Life

The lawsuit had a significant impact on Lizzo’s personal and professional life. She lost 150,000 followers overnight, a blow she discusses candidly at [25:14]: “I was like, oh, wow. This is the part of fame that you unknowingly sign up for.” Lizzo explains her temporary withdrawal from social media as a necessary step for her mental well-being, highlighting the toxic relationship she developed with the internet during the backlash ([26:18]-[27:33]).

Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health

Throughout the conversation, Lizzo emphasizes the importance of mental health and coping mechanisms. She credits therapy for helping her navigate the emotional turmoil caused by the allegations. At [48:40], she shares, “My therapist helped me find the words to... be able to be more expressive,” underscoring the role of professional support in her healing process.

Upcoming Projects and Future Plans

Despite the challenges, Lizzo remains focused on her creative endeavors. She discusses her upcoming album, describing it as a blend of her personal experiences with themes of anger, sadness, and ultimate positivity. At [45:05], Lizzo notes, “I have a lot of angry songs, a lot of dark songs... but I remember my purpose is to remain true to myself,” signaling a deep emotional journey within her music.

Fun Segment: Holiday Games

Adding a lighthearted touch, Keke Palmer engages Lizzo in a festive game where Lizzo attempts to guess popular Christmas songs played as flute covers. The segment, filled with laughter and playful banter, highlights the rapport between the hosts and provides a glimpse into Lizzo’s fun-loving personality.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with Lizzo and Keke Palmer reflecting on resilience and personal growth. Lizzo shares her gratitude for the support of her loyal fans and emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself despite public scrutiny. Palmer concludes by encouraging listeners to subscribe and enjoy future episodes, leaving the audience with a sense of empowerment and inspiration.

Notable Quotes

• Lizzo at [04:38]: “I was completely surprised.”

• Lizzo at [10:00]: “I definitely... learned how to set those kinds of boundaries.”

• Lizzo at [25:14]: “I was like, oh, wow. This is the part of fame that you unknowingly sign up for.”

• Lizzo at [45:05]: “I have a lot of angry songs, a lot of dark songs... but I remember my purpose is to remain true to myself.”

• Lizzo at [48:40]: “My therapist helped me find the words to... be able to be more expressive.”

Final Thoughts

This episode of Baby, This is Keke Palmer offers a comprehensive and honest look into Lizzo’s experiences with fame, controversy, and personal growth. Through thoughtful dialogue and candid revelations, both Keke Palmer and Lizzo provide listeners with valuable insights into handling public scrutiny, maintaining authenticity, and the importance of mental health.