Lizzo is stepping back into the spotlight and getting real about why she took a break from music. During a recent performance in Los Angeles, the “Truth Hurts” singer opened up about her mental health struggles and how they shaped her upcoming album, Love in Real Life.
“I named it that because about a year and a half ago—it’s still hard for me to talk about—I was in a really dark place,” she told the audience, according to People magazine. “I was so heartbroken by the world and so deeply hurt that I didn’t want to live anymore. I was so afraid of people, I didn’t even want to be seen.”
2023 was a tough year for Lizzo. She was battling depression while also facing a high-profile lawsuit from former dancers accusing her of harassment, body shaming, and creating a hostile work environment—allegations she has strongly denied. While her name has been dropped from the lawsuit, her touring company, Big Grrrl Big Touring, is still involved in the legal battle.
But something shifted in her. She recalled a life-changing moment with a fan that helped her break through the darkness.
“As I was walking through the crowd, someone I didn’t even know looked at me and said, ‘Lizzo, I love you.’ They reached out, and I reached back—we hugged, and it felt so damn good,” she said. “That moment made me realize… you can’t get this kind of love on the internet. This is the kind of love you only find in real life.”
Lizzo made it clear she’s not looking for sympathy—she just wants people who have struggled with depression, betrayal, or hate to know they’re not alone. She hopes her story inspires others to reach out for help and healing.
As she slowly eases back into the public eye, fans have also noticed her transformation. Lizzo recently debuted a slimmer figure, which she calls part of her “weight release” journey—a personal shift she’s been working on for months.
“I am the best version of Melissa ‘Lizzo’ Jefferson right now,” she shared. “Not because of anything external, but because of the work I’ve done on myself as a human being. I’m really proud of this version of me, and I can’t wait for the world to meet her.”
With her new album on the way, Lizzo is ready to step into this next chapter—stronger, wiser, and more herself than ever.
