Will Smith Lawsuit Explained: Understanding the Allegations Against Him

Will Smith is facing legal action from Brian King Joseph, a violinist and finalist from America’s Got Talent, stemming from his participation in the actor’s Based on a True Story world tour in 2025. Joseph contributed to Smith’s live performances, during which the actor showcased some of his celebrated songs.

Based on a True Story marks a significant milestone for Smith as it is his fifth album, released two decades after his previous work, Lost and Found. Over these years, Smith’s career soared, driven by successful sequels in the Bad Boys franchise, Men in Black 3, and the acclaimed film I Am Legend. His portrayal of Richard Williams in the 2021 biopic King Richard earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.

Nonetheless, Smith’s Oscar win was overshadowed by controversy after he assaulted comedian Chris Rock during the 2022 Oscars following a joke aimed at his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. This incident led to Smith’s ban from the Academy and a public apology in a video shared on Instagram.

Details of the Lawsuit Against Will Smith

Brian King Joseph playing violin — Brian King Joseph/Instagram

On December 30, 2025, Joseph filed a lawsuit against Will Smith and Treyball Studios Management, Inc., alleging sexual harassment and wrongful termination. He accuses Smith of engaging in “predatory behavior, ” as reported by Variety.

In his suit, Joseph recounts an incident from March 2025 when he returned to his hotel room in Las Vegas to find that someone had entered without permission. He discovered a note left by the intruder that contained a “sexual threat of violence, ” stating, “Brian, I’ll be back… just us.” Along with the note, the individual left several items: wipes, a beer bottle, a red backpack, HIV medication under someone else’s name, an earring, and hospital discharge paperwork.

Joseph alleges that Smith had previously remarked on their “special connection, ” and after reporting the incident to hotel staff and authorities, he claims he faced stigmatization from Smith’s management, leading to his dismissal from the tour under the pretense that the show was “moving in a different direction.”

The lawsuit claims that Joseph has experienced “severe emotional distress, economic loss, reputational harm, and other damages” as a result of these events. The amount sought in damages remains undisclosed.

Response from Will Smith’s Legal Team

While Smith has yet to directly address the allegations, his attorney, Allen B. Grotsky, has issued a statement to People, categorically denying all claims made against him as “false, baseless, and reckless.” Grotsky emphasized their intent to contest these allegations vigorously.

Just days before the lawsuit’s announcement, on December 27, Joseph shared a video expressing his determination to pursue legal action after witnessing misconduct during the tour. While he did not name Smith, he spoke candidly about the importance of reporting such behavior.

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A post shared by Brian King (@briankingjoseph)

During his message, Joseph emphasized the importance of speaking out: “The reason why I am speaking out about this is because being fired or shamed for reporting sexual misconduct or workplace safety threats is simply unacceptable. I see those who are afraid to speak up, and I want them to know that they’re not alone.”

On January 2, Joseph took to Instagram to thank his supporters, expressing his appreciation for their encouragement: “The support means a lot to you guys, thank you.”

Joseph gained recognition as a contestant in Season 13 of America’s Got Talent in 2018, where he secured third place, right behind the acrobatic group Zurcaroh and the season’s ultimate winner, magician Shin Lim.

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