Lizzo Opens Up About Finding Peace in Japan and Turning Public Struggles Into Creative Strength

In 2023, Lizzo deliberately withdrew from the public eye following a lawsuit filed by former tour dancers, which made headlines. During an appearance on Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast, Lizzo shared that her decision to step away was part of a plan to “protect her peace.” She explained that she intended to take time off after her album cycle for her 2022 release, Special, had concluded. For Lizzo, this meant avoiding media attention and interviews as she focused on personal well-being.

Lizzo Explains Personal Retreat in Japan Amid Legal Scandal and Public Scrutiny

While Lizzo planned her time away from the spotlight for personal reasons, the timing coincided with a legal scandal. In August 2023, former backup dancers filed a lawsuit against Lizzo, accusing her of creating a hostile work environment and sexual harassment. Lizzo has denied the claims, and though she attempted to dismiss the suit, it continues to unfold in the legal system.

Despite public perceptions that she was “hiding,” Lizzo clarified that her break was simply the natural end of her album cycle, paired with a personal retreat to Japan.

During her time off, Lizzo embraced self-care by visiting Kyoto, Japan, to “disappear” into nature, meditate, and find balance. While in the woods, the legal situation involving her dancers surfaced, adding unexpected stress to her peaceful retreat. Lizzo reflected on the irony of the situation, acknowledging the public’s curiosity about her absence. However, she felt it was essential to be honest with her supporters and explain the circumstances, especially to those who care about her.

Lizzo Overcomes Emotional Struggles and Anxiety, Transforming Adversity into Creative Empowerment

Upon returning from Japan in October 2023, Lizzo faced an emotional and physical toll from the events that transpired. She described experiencing her first panic attack after landing in Los Angeles, an unsettling realization that she had been suppressing anxiety.

Lizzo spoke candidly about the weight of public scrutiny, revealing that she struggled with the feeling of being disliked for something she felt was untrue. Her overwhelming sense of anxiety highlighted the emotional challenges she was facing in the aftermath of the scandal.

As Lizzo navigated through a “dark” period of fear and isolation, she slowly found the courage to reconnect with people. This journey of rebuilding her confidence and forming a supportive community became a source of inspiration for her upcoming album, Love in Real Life.

Lizzo emphasized her resilience, describing how she transforms personal challenges into empowering acts of “rebellious joy” for her fans. Despite the struggles, she has learned to use adversity as fuel for her creative expression and remains committed to her mission of spreading meaningful joy through her music.