January 02, (THEWILL) — A civil lawsuit has been filed against American actor and singer, Will Smith, and his company, Treyball Studios Management, Inc., by professional violinist, Brian King Joseph, alleging sexual harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliation connected to Smith’s 2025 Based on a True Story global tour.
The complaint was filed on December 30 in Los Angeles County Superior Court.
According to the filing, Joseph was first hired by Smith in November 2024 to perform at a San Diego concert and was later invited to join the full tour and record on Smith’s upcoming album.
The lawsuit alleges Smith was “deliberately grooming and priming Mr Joseph for further sexual exploitation.”
Joseph alleges that his hotel room, which had been booked by Smith’s team, was entered without his consent. He claims he discovered a handwritten note addressed to him that read:
“Brian, I’ll be back… just us,” with a drawn heart and signed “Stone F.”
Joseph also says he found wipes, a beer bottle, personal items, hospital discharge paperwork, and HIV medication bearing another person’s name, none of which he recognised.
He states that the discovery caused him to fear that an unknown individual would return to engage in unwanted sexual contact.
After reporting the incident to hotel staff, a local non-emergency police line, and Smith’s management team, Joseph alleges he was shamed by a tour manager and informed that he was being terminated. He says another violinist was later hired to replace him.
Joseph claims the incident and his termination caused severe emotional distress, economic loss, reputational harm, and PTSD.
Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, denied the allegations in a statement, saying:
“Mr Joseph’s allegations concerning my client are false, baseless, and reckless. They are categorically denied, and we will use all legal means available to address these claims and to ensure that the truth is brought to light.”
Joseph gained recognition in 2018 after placing among the top three finalists on America’s Got Talent season 13. In December 2024, he shared an Instagram video marking his first night touring with Smith.
Smith’s Based on a True Story tour ran from June to September 2025, following the release of his album earlier that year.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
