Jason Derulo, the pop star and TikTok sensation, has issued a statement denying the sexual harassment allegations made by Emaza Gibson, a singer who was signed to his record label, Future History. Gibson filed a lawsuit against Derulo on Thursday, claiming that he breached their contract and subjected her to unwanted sexual advances, intimidation, and violence.
According to the lawsuit, Gibson was offered a deal with Future History, a joint venture between Derulo and Atlantic Records, in August 2021. She alleges that Derulo promised her success and fame, but also pressured her to socialize with him, drink alcohol, and participate in a sex ritual involving a goat sacrifice and cocaine. She says that Derulo became hostile and abusive when she rejected his propositions, and eventually terminated their working relationship in September 2022.
Aspiring Singer Accuses Jason Derulo of Sexual Harassment and Intimidation in Lawsuit
Gibson told NBC News that she was “traumatized” by the experience and that she had “nothing” left after losing her opportunity to pursue her solo career. She is seeking damages for unpaid wages, loss of earnings, emotional distress, and employment benefits.
Derulo responded to the allegations on his Instagram account, calling them “completely false and hurtful”.
He said that he stands against all forms of harassment and that he strives to live his life in a positively impacting way. He also said that he is “deeply offended” by these “defamatory claims”.
Derulo is not the only defendant named in the lawsuit. Gibson also sued his manager, Frank Harris, Atlantic Records, RCA Records, and Future History. The BBC has approached the named parties for comment.
The lawsuit comes as Derulo is preparing to release his fifth studio album, 2Sides, which features collaborations with Nicki Minaj, Ty Dolla $ign, and Stefflon Don. He is also set to star in the upcoming film adaptation of the musical Cats, alongside Jennifer Hudson, Taylor Swift, and Idris Elba.
Dogli Wilberforce is a versatile professional skilled in both SEO copywriting and journalism. With a background in journalism, he brings a unique storytelling perspective to his work. This allows him to create captivating narratives that resonate effectively online, making him a dynamic asset in today’s content-driven world.