Will Smith Denies Allegations After Former Tour Musician Files Lawsuit
Oscar-winning actor Will Smith is facing renewed legal scrutiny following a lawsuit filed by former touring violinist Brian King Joseph, who claims he was subjected to sexual harassment and wrongful termination while working on Smith’s Based on a True Story: 2025 tour.
Joseph, a violinist who gained national attention as a top-three finalist on America’s Got Talent in 2018, says his professional relationship with Smith began in November 2024 after performing at a private event at the actor’s home. According to the lawsuit, he was later invited to perform at Smith’s December 2024 concert in San Diego and ultimately joined the full tour, also contributing to Smith’s album Based on a True Story.
The lawsuit outlines a series of events that Joseph alleges occurred during the tour. He claims that over time, his working relationship with Smith developed into what he describes as “personal interactions beyond professional collaboration.” The complaint details several incidents that Joseph says caused him emotional and professional harm.
A key allegation revolves around an incident during the tour’s March 2025 stop in Las Vegas. Joseph asserts that after returning to his hotel room, which was arranged by Smith’s team, he discovered items inside that raised serious concerns. These included personal belongings that did not belong to him and a handwritten note implying a planned private encounter, which he interpreted as a threatening and unwanted advance.
Joseph says he immediately reported the incident to hotel security, local authorities, and representatives of the tour. According to the lawsuit, instead of receiving support, he was allegedly questioned and accused of fabricating the situation. Days later, he was informed that his services were no longer required, which Joseph claims was retaliation for reporting the incident.
The complaint also asserts that the alleged harassment and inappropriate behavior began well before the Las Vegas incident. Joseph describes what he views as grooming and manipulative conduct during his interactions with Smith in the months leading up to the alleged hotel room situation. He says these experiences left him emotionally distressed and caused reputational and financial harm.
Smith’s legal team has strongly denied all allegations. Attorney Allen B. Grodsky issued a statement calling the claims “false, baseless, and completely without merit.” The team confirmed that Smith intends to vigorously defend himself against the lawsuit, noting that all allegations remain unproven.
While Smith himself has not publicly commented on the matter, the case has quickly drawn attention due to his high profile and the nature of the claims. Legal experts suggest that cases involving alleged harassment and wrongful termination on high-profile tours can be complex, particularly when they involve claims of retaliation and personal misconduct.
Joseph is seeking damages through the civil court system, requesting compensation for the emotional, physical, and professional impacts he says he endured. The suit is in the early stages, and the legal process is expected to be lengthy, with discovery and potential testimony playing key roles in how the case develops.
This lawsuit marks another legal challenge for Smith, whose public image has been closely scrutinized in recent years. While he has continued his professional work in film and music, the allegations from a former member of his touring team have added a new layer of controversy that will likely remain in the public eye as the case progresses.
As of early 2026, no trial date has been set, and both sides are preparing for what could become a drawn-out legal dispute. Observers note that the case highlights broader conversations about workplace conduct, accountability, and the responsibilities of high-profile entertainers toward their staff and collaborators.
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