Oscar-winning actor Will Smith is facing a serious lawsuit from a musician who worked on his recent tour, alleging sexual harassment and retaliatory dismissal.
The Allegations and the Intrusion
Violinist Brian King Joseph, a former finalist on America's Got Talent, has filed legal action in California Superior Court against Smith and his management company, Treyball Studios Management, Inc. The lawsuit centres on events said to have occurred in March 2025 during Smith's Based on a True Story: 2025 global tour.
Joseph claims he was subjected to a "traumatic series of events" culminating in a disturbing intrusion at his Las Vegas hotel room. According to the filing, an unknown person gained unauthorised access and left behind items described as evidence of a "sexual threat of violence." These allegedly included used wipes, a beer bottle, a red backpack, a bottle of HIV medication bearing another person's name, an earring, and hospital discharge paperwork.
A note left with the items, signed with a heart and the name "Stone F.," read: "Brian, I'll be back... just us."
Claims of Grooming and Retaliation
The legal complaint alleges that prior to this incident, Will Smith had been "deliberately grooming and priming Mr. Joseph for further sexual exploitation." It cites one meeting where Smith is claimed to have told the violinist, "You and I have such a special connection that I don't have with anyone else."
Furthermore, the lawsuit states that Joseph's bag, containing his hotel room key, was lost by Smith's management team. After discovering the intrusion, Joseph reported it to hotel staff, a non-emergency police line, and the tour management. He alleges that instead of receiving support, a member of the team "shamed" him and informed him he would be fired.
Joseph was subsequently dismissed from the tour. The lawsuit argues this was retaliatory and that the swift hiring of a replacement violinist was an attempt to cover up the true reasons for his removal.
Legal Denials and Damages Sought
Will Smith's legal representatives have issued a firm denial of all allegations. In a statement, they described Joseph's claims as "false, baseless, and reckless" and stated they are "categorically denied." The lawyers added, "We will use all legal means available to address these claims and to ensure that the truth is brought to light."
Brian King Joseph is seeking compensation for damages including "severe emotional distress, economic loss, reputational harm," and for suffering "PTSD and other mental illness" following the alleged events.
