Violinist Brian King Joseph, a former finalist on America's Got Talent, has filed a bombshell lawsuit against Hollywood A-lister Will Smith, alleging sexual harassment and wrongful termination. The legal action follows a cryptic social media post by Joseph on Christmas Day, hinting at his intention to speak out.
Cryptic Christmas Post Preceded Legal Action
Five days before officially filing suit, Joseph shared a video on Instagram on 25 December. In the clip, he told followers he needed to discuss "something really important" related to a "major, major tour" with a huge industry figure. He stated he was speaking out because "getting fired or getting blamed or shamed or threatened... simply for reporting sexual misconduct or safety threats at work, is not okay." The caption urged followers to "always stand up for your beliefs and what is right no matter what."
Allegations of a Sinister Hotel Incident and Retaliation
The lawsuit, filed at the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles on Tuesday, details disturbing claims. Joseph, 32, was hired to perform on Smith's 'Based on a True Story: 2025' tour after initially playing at the star's home in November 2024.
The central allegation concerns an event on 20 March 2025 during a tour stop in Las Vegas. Joseph claims he returned to his hotel room around 11pm to find it had been "unlawfully entered" by an unknown person. A handwritten note was left, reading: "Brian, I'll be back no later [sic] 5:30 juts us," signed with a heart and "Stone F." The suit alleges other personal items were also left in the room.
Joseph immediately reported the incident to hotel security, Smith's team, and a non-emergency police line. However, he claims that days later, tour management "shamed" him, accused him of lying, and then fired him in retaliation. The lawsuit argues the facts suggest Smith was "deliberately grooming and priming Mr. Joseph for further sexual exploitation."
Firm Denial and Severe Claims of Damage
Will Smith's attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, issued a firm denial to the Daily Mail, calling Joseph's accusations "false, baseless, and reckless." He stated they are "categorically denied" and promised to use all legal means to address the claims.
In contrast, Joseph's suit claims the firing caused him "severe emotional distress, economic loss, reputational harm, and other damages." It further alleges the stress led to "major physiological damage" and that he "suffered from PTSD and other mental illness as a result of the termination." Joseph is demanding a jury trial.
