Motown icon Smokey Robinson displayed remarkable vitality and a carefree demeanour during a golf outing with friends in Santa Barbara this week, exclusive photographs reveal. The 85-year-old music legend, currently embroiled in a multi-million dollar legal battle, seemed untroubled as he enjoyed rounds at the picturesque Sandpiper Golf Course on Tuesday.
Vibrant Style and Boundless Energy on the Fairway
The Grammy-winning singer arrived at the course in the early morning, showcasing his distinctive fashion sense with a bright red jacket boldly emblazoned with the word 'JAMMIN' across the back. He coordinated the look with matching red-and-white golf shoes, crisp white trousers, and a classic baseball cap. Robinson's signature green eyes sparkled beneath the cap's brim, accentuated by small silver hoop earrings and a chunky chain necklace visible under his jacket.
Despite his advanced age, Robinson demonstrated impressive independence, effortlessly fetching a golf cart from the pro shop and loading his own bag of clubs without assistance. Fellow golfers at the public course praised his enduring energy levels. 'Smokey does great out there. He's got so much energy it's hard for the rest of us to keep up,' one player told the Daily Mail.
A Regular Presence Amidst Legal Turmoil
Robinson has become a familiar figure at Sandpiper, where he has reportedly dismissed the serious allegations against him as merely 'a money grab.' This casual attitude comes despite facing a $50 million lawsuit filed in May 2025 by four former employees. The plaintiffs allege sexual assault, sexual battery, and labour violations against both Robinson and his wife of 23 years, Frances Robinson, prompting an ongoing criminal investigation.
The legal situation intensified last November when two additional anonymous accusers joined the lawsuit with disturbing claims. The new plaintiffs allege that the music star 'tried to force them to touch his erect manhood.' One motion from a 'Jane Doe 5' details allegations from a former housekeeper employed between 2005 and 2011, who claims Robinson grabbed her hand and attempted to make her touch him inappropriately on more than ten occasions.
Robust Legal Defence and Counter Allegations
In response to these serious accusations, the Robinsons launched a formidable $500 million defamation countersuit. Their legal team has characterised the original allegations as 'vile,' 'false,' and an example of 'elder abuse,' framing them as 'an ugly method of trying to extract money from an icon.'
Christopher Frost, Robinson's attorney, released a statement denouncing what he called 'an organized, avaricious campaign.' Frost asserted, 'This group of people who hide behind anonymity, and their attorneys seek global publicity while making the ugliest of false allegations. Once the public can see the truth, their avaricious motives and fabricated claims will be revealed.'
The lawsuit also implicates Frances Robinson, 73, who is accused of fostering a 'hostile work environment' for staff members. With an estimated net worth of $150 million, the financial stakes for the couple are substantial, yet the exclusive photographs suggest Robinson remains remarkably composed.
Maintaining Performance Schedule Despite Legal Pressures
As the legal proceedings continue toward a trial scheduled for October 2027, Robinson maintains a busy performance calendar across the United States. His next appearance is set for Valentine's Day at the Thunder Bay Casino in Lincoln, California.
Further 2026 concert dates include engagements in:
- Rancho Mirage, California
- Atlantic City, New Jersey
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Choctaw, Mississippi
- A special performance with friend Gladys Knight at the Hollywood Bowl on July 25th
Robinson's legendary career includes producing 26 Top 40 hits with The Miracles between 1960 and 1970 as lead singer. His enduring classics such as 'The Tears Of A Clown' (1967), 'Cruisin'' (1979), 'Being With You' (1981), and 'Just To See Her' (1987) continue to define his musical legacy, even as he navigates these significant personal and legal challenges.
