Jason Derulo Calls Sexual Harassment Claims ‘Completely False’
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Jason Derulo has responded to a lawsuit claiming he sexually harassed an aspiring singer named Emaza Gibson. In a video posted to social media, Derulo called the accusations “completely false,” adding that he’s “deeply offended” by the suit.
Jason Derulo Responds to Sexual Harassment Claims
Earlier this week, Gibson filed a lawsuit against Derulo for “sexual harassment, intimidation and violence, illegal retaliatory termination, and breach of contract, among other things.” Derulo allegedly signed her to his record label in 2021.
According to Gibson, Derulo pressured her to have sex with him and eventually fired her for refusing his advances. Her attorney Ron Zambrano said that Derulo’s “threats of physical harm and unconscionable sexual advances toward this young woman who is just trying to break into the industry were outrageous and illegal.”
Derulo responded to the accusations on social media, saying in a video, “I wouldn’t normally comment, but these claims are completely false and hurtful. I stand against all forms of harassment, and I remain supportive of anybody following their dreams.”
The singer said he tries to live “in a positively impactful way,” adding that he’s “deeply offended” by what he calls “defamatory claims.” He ended his message by saying, “God bless.”
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Gibson’s Lawyer Has Responded to Derulo
Following Derulo’s social media statement, Gibson’s lawyer Ron Zambrano shared a response, saying, “If Derulo truly remained supportive of anyone following their dreams, he would acknowledge the pain and suffering he caused Emaza and aim to be a better person.”
“He should be offended by these allegations, as should everyone, including his fans,” the statement continues. “Emaza is certainly offended by his dismissive attitude. The entire music industry is due for a #MeToo movement. This sort of conduct is pervasive but it takes brave people like Emaza to come out of the shadows and share their stories to finally bring an end to this shameful behavior.”
Deadline points out that Zambrano is also one of the attorneys representing Lizzo’s former dancers in their lawsuit against the singer for alleged sexual harassment.