Hollywood superstar Will Smith finds himself at the centre of a serious legal battle, facing allegations of sexual harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliation. The plaintiff is violinist and musician Bryan King Joseph, who has filed a lawsuit in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles.
Allegations of Grooming and a Threatening Incident
The legal complaint paints a disturbing picture of Joseph's time working with the Oscar-winning actor. According to the filing, Joseph was invited to join Smith's tour, 'Based On A True Story,' in 2024. As they began collaborating, Joseph alleges that Smith used suggestive language, telling him they shared a "special connection" unlike any other.
The situation escalated with a bizarre and frightening incident in Joseph's hotel room. The violinist claims someone entered his room without signs of forced entry and left behind a series of items: wipes, a beer bottle, a red backpack, and a bottle of HIV medication bearing another person's name. Most alarming was a handwritten note that read, "Brian, I'll be back no later [sic] than 5:30, just us (drawn heart), Stone F."
Joseph interpreted this as a direct sexual threat, fearing the individual's return for unwanted acts. He reported the actions to hotel staff, a local non-police emergency line, and Smith's management team.
Retaliation and Termination Claims
Instead of receiving support, the lawsuit claims Joseph was "shamed" for raising the issue. Shortly after his reports, he was informed that his services were no longer required, leading to the wrongful termination allegation. Joseph, a former contestant on America's Got Talent season 13, asserts that the entire ordeal has caused him significant harm.
The musician is seeking damages for monetary loss, severe mental anguish including PTSD, and damage to his professional reputation. The exact amount will be determined by a jury, as the case proceeds.
Smith's Legal Woes and Silence
As of now, Will Smith or his representatives have not publicly commented on these specific allegations. This lawsuit adds to the actor's recent legal challenges. Notably, his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, is separately embroiled in a $3 million lawsuit for allegedly threatening a former associate, Bilaal Salaam.
The case filed on January 2, 2026, marks a serious turn in the public narrative surrounding the globally recognized actor, moving from award-show controversy to grave legal accusations that could have lasting repercussions on his career and public image.
