Detroit Rapper Dank Demoss Sues Lyft Over Shocking Fat-Shaming Allegations
Detroit rapper Dank Demoss has taken a stand against Lyft in a lawsuit that has everyone talking. The artist, whose real name is Dajua Blanding, claims she was humiliated and left stranded by a Lyft driver who allegedly refused to let her into his car because of her weight.
Blanding filed the lawsuit in Michigan’s Circuit Court for Wayne County on Monday, January 27, taking legal action against both the rideshare giant and the driver—identified only as John Doe. According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, the incident unfolded on January 18 when the rapper was trying to catch a ride to her cousin’s house for a football watch party.
“Too Big To Fit in the Back Seat”
As she approached the vehicle, Doe reportedly locked the doors and attempted to drive off. When Blanding confronted the driver and asked why he was leaving her behind, Doe allegedly told her it was because she was “too big to fit in the back seat” and that “his tires were not capable of supporting Plaintiff’s weight.” The rapper insisted there was enough room for her to sit comfortably, but the driver remained unmoved.
According to the lawsuit, Doe doubled down, telling Blanding that he had “this problem in the past” and that “overweight individuals must order Lyft XLs.” For those unfamiliar, Lyft XLs are larger vehicles that accommodate up to six passengers and cost more than standard rides.
Ultimately, Doe canceled the ride and drove away, leaving Blanding. She is now fighting back, claiming she was subjected to a hostile environment and discriminatory treatment.
A Case of Discrimination?
Her attorney, John Marko, told PEOPLE, “Under the law, refusing someone transportation due to their weight is no different than refusing someone transportation based on their race or religion. Discrimination of any kind should never be tolerated in our society.”
Another member of her legal team, attorney Zach Runyan, emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “Imagine the consequences if Ms. Blanding were unable to seek shelter after the driver left her stranded. This could have ended even worse than it did.”
Blanding is seeking damages for stress, humiliation, embarrassment, mental anguish, and other emotional and economic hardships. She is also demanding coverage for her attorney fees and court costs.
Lyft Responds
Lyft attempted to distance itself from the scandal. “Lyft unequivocally condemns all forms of discrimination—we believe in a community where everyone is treated with equal respect and mutual kindness,” a company spokesperson said. “Our community guidelines and terms of service explicitly prohibit harassment or discrimination.”
The case has already sparked heated debates online, with fans and celebrities weighing in on the incident. However, some are questioning whether Blanding’s claims are fair, pointing out that larger passengers often require more spacious vehicles for safety and comfort. Others argue that drivers should have the right to refuse service if they believe a ride could cause damage to their vehicle.
Regardless of the outcome, this lawsuit has put the spotlight on rideshare policies and the ongoing debate about personal responsibility versus discrimination.
