Hollywood star Will Smith is facing a serious sexual harassment lawsuit filed by a violinist who worked on his recent global tour. The plaintiff, former America's Got Talent finalist Brian King Joseph, alleges a series of disturbing events led to his retaliatory firing after he reported an incident.
Allegations of Predatory Behaviour and a Hotel Room Intrusion
In legal documents submitted to the California Superior Court this week, Joseph details what he describes as a "traumatic series of events" in March 2025. The lawsuit claims that while working on Smith's Based on a True Story: 2025 tour, he was subjected to a pattern of "predatory behaviour" intended to groom him for sexual exploitation.
The complaint states that Smith told Joseph during a meeting, "You and I have such a special connection that I don't have with anyone else." The situation escalated, according to the filing, when someone gained unauthorised access to Joseph's Las Vegas hotel room.
The violinist allegedly found a collection of disturbing items left behind, which he interpreted as a "sexual threat of violence." These items included:
- Used wipes and a beer bottle
- A red backpack and a single earring
- A bottle of HIV medication bearing another person's name
- Hospital discharge paperwork for an unknown individual
A handwritten note signed with a heart and the name "Stone F." was also discovered, reading: "Brian, I'll be back... just us." The lawsuit connects the intrusion to the prior loss of Joseph's bag, which contained his room key, by Smith's management company, Treyball Studios Management, Inc.
Retaliation and a Firm Denial
After discovering the intrusion, Brian King Joseph reported the incident to hotel security, a local non-emergency police line, and Will Smith's management team. The legal filing alleges that instead of receiving support, he was "shamed" by a member of the team and told he would be fired.
Joseph was subsequently removed from the tour, and the lawsuit argues his dismissal was retaliatory. It points to the swift hiring of a replacement violinist as evidence of an attempt to cover up the real reasons for his removal.
The musician claims he has suffered PTSD and other mental illness as a result of the alleged events. He is seeking compensation for severe emotional distress, economic loss, reputational harm, and other damages.
Will Smith's Legal Team Responds
Will Smith's legal representative has issued a strong and categorical denial of all allegations. In a statement, the lawyer said: "Mr Joseph’s allegations concerning my client are false, baseless, and reckless. They are categorically denied, and we will use all legal means available to address these claims and to ensure that the truth is brought to light."
The case, filed in the first week of January 2026, presents a significant legal challenge for the Oscar-winning actor, known for roles in King Richard and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Both sides are now preparing for a potentially lengthy court battle as they seek to prove their version of events.
