Will Smith Sued by Tour Violinist for Sexual Harassment and Wrongful Termination

Legal action has been filed by violinist Brian King Joseph, a former finalist on "America's Got Talent," against actor and musician Will Smith and his management firm, Treyball Studios. The complaint, submitted in a Los Angeles court and obtained by Variety, accuses the defendants of sexual harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliatory conduct. Joseph's involvement with Smith began after a joint performance in San Diego in late 2024, which led to his hiring for Smith's "Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour."

The court documents describe a pattern of alleged "predatory grooming," wherein Smith is said to have fostered a personal relationship by emphasizing their unique connection before offering the tour position and a role in a music initiative. The situation reportedly intensified during the tour's Las Vegas launch in March. Joseph claims his bag, containing his hotel key, was confiscated by management staff and held for hours. After eventually recovering it and accessing his room, he found clear signs of an intrusion.

Items left behind included personal wipes, a bottle of HIV medication prescribed to another individual, and a disturbing note. Signed "Stone F," the message stated, "Brian, I’ll be back no later [sic] 5:30, just us," and was illustrated with a hand-drawn heart. Joseph perceived this as a direct threat of an impending sexual assault. He immediately notified hotel security, Smith's management team, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. Will Smith, a global entertainment figure whose accolades span an Academy Award for Best Actor and four Grammy wins, has not publicly commented on the lawsuit.

According to the filing, the reaction from Smith's team was retaliatory. Just days after Joseph reported the incident, a management representative allegedly confronted him, accused him of lying about the event, and terminated his employment on the tour. This abrupt dismissal is said to have caused significant financial loss and exacerbated post-traumatic stress for Joseph. Legal experts note that retaliation claims are often pivotal in harassment cases, as they can demonstrate an effort to silence the accuser rather than investigate the core complaint, potentially increasing liability for the defendant.

Brian King Joseph, who rose to prominence through his high-energy performances on the 13th season of "America's Got Talent," is pursuing a jury trial to resolve the allegations and secure compensation for damages. A request for comment from Will Smith's representatives was not immediately returned. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of workplace safety and accountability in the touring industry, where power dynamics can sometimes leave performers vulnerable.