Violinist Sues Will Smith, Claims ‘Grooming’

Will Smith is being sued by a touring violinist who claims he was removed from the entertainer’s tour after reporting what he believed to be a sexual harassment–related incident at a Las Vegas hotel, according to NBC News.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, was brought by musician Brian King Joseph, who alleges he was fired in retaliation for notifying hotel security, police, and members of Smith’s team about what he described as an unauthorized entry into his hotel room in March 2024.

Joseph says he had been performing with Smith since late 2023 on the “Based on a True Story” tour and claims Smith told him the two shared a “special connection.” According to the complaint, Joseph returned to his hotel room late one night and noticed items that suggested someone else had been inside while he was away, including personal belongings and a handwritten note implying a planned return visit. Joseph says he interpreted the situation as an attempt to initiate sexual activity without his consent.

The lawsuit alleges hotel security informed Joseph there were no signs of forced entry and that only individuals associated with Smith’s management had access to the room. After reporting the incident, Joseph claims a representative for Smith accused him of lying and terminated his employment. He was later replaced by another violinist, and he was told the tour was “moving in a different direction,” according to the filing.

The suit accuses Smith of predatory behavior and claims Joseph was subjected to grooming and retaliation. A management company associated with Smith is also named as a defendant. The complaint does not specify an amount being sought in damages.

Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, denied the allegations, calling them “false, baseless, and reckless.” He said the claims are “categorically denied” and stated that Smith intends to vigorously contest the lawsuit.

original source