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Lizzo has had it with the critics in her life — so much to the point that she’s quitting music for good.
The pop singer announced in an Instagram post Friday that she’s leaving the music industry after being “dragged by everyone” in her life and people online.
“I’m constantly up against lies being told about me for clout & views…being the butt of the joke every single time because of how I look…my character being picked apart by people who don’t know me and disrespecting my name,” the 35-year-old shared to her 12.2 million followers on Instagram.
“I didn’t sign up for this sh**t,” she added. “I QUIT.”
Lizzo — whose real name is Melissa Viviane Jefferson — has a music career that spans over a decade. She rose to fame with hit singles like “Truth Hurts,” and “About Damn Time,” which both peaked No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Over the span of her career, she has won several awards, including three Grammys in 2020 and another Grammy in 2023 for record of the year. Lizzo has also become a symbol of body positivity for many of her fans, even launching her own shapewear brand called YITTY in 2022.
Despite her success, Lizzo’s reputation has come under much scrutiny. Three of her former dancers filed a lawsuit against the singer and her production company last year alleging body shaming, discrimination, racism and sexual harassment. Lizzo responded to the allegations in an Instagram post, calling them “unbelievable” and “outrageous.” She also filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, but it was denied by the Los Angeles superior court judge this past February.
Lizzo also received heavy backlash in 2019, after twerking in a cut-out dress exposing her thong at a basketball game. After the event, she responded to critics in an Instagram live video, saying that their feedback had “no effect on me,” she said.
While Lizzo now wants to call it quits, some are trying to stop her. Several celebrities have expressed words of encouragement following her announcement, including comedian Loni Love, who told her to not to let the haters win and to “stay off the internet.” R&B/soul singer Chrisette Michele also commented under Lizzo’s post, revealing how she relates and telling her to “let this season be yours until you’re ready to share again.”
“You’re beautiful,” Michele said. “This isn’t the end. These are growing pains. You’re going to be so proud of everything you become.”
While it’s not clear if Lizzo has really left music for good, it’s clear that her presence will be missed by her beloved fans and supporters.
