Oscar-winning actor Will Smith is being sued by musician Brian King Joseph, a violinist who claims he was sexually harassed and wrongfully terminated from Smith’s 2025 global tour, “Based on a True Story”. Joseph, a top-three finalist on America’s Got Talent in 2018, alleges that Smith “deliberately groomed and primed” him for further sexual exploitation.
The complaint, filed on December 30, 2025, in Los Angeles Superior Court, accuses Smith and his company, Treyball Studios Management, Inc., of retaliation and wrongful termination. Joseph claims that in March 2025, someone entered his Las Vegas hotel room without consent, leaving behind a handwritten note with a suggestive message and other disturbing items.
Joseph reported the incident to hotel security and tour management but was allegedly shamed and terminated from the tour. He was replaced by another violinist, which he claims indicates retaliation. The lawsuit seeks compensation for emotional distress, economic loss, and reputational harm.
The alleged incident has left Joseph suffering from severe emotional distress, including PTSD. He is seeking damages for the harm caused by the alleged actions of Smith and his team.
Smith has not publicly responded to the allegations, and the lawsuit’s claims have not been tested in court.
Author: Korkor Anumu
