Musician Brian King Joseph has made serious allegations against actor and rapper Will Smith, claiming that he was terminated from Smith’s tour as retaliation for reporting a sexual assault incident. This news emerged from a lawsuit Joseph filed in California, which highlights the complexities surrounding his experiences during the tour.
In the lawsuit, Joseph recounts a disturbing experience on or about March 20, 2025, during Smith’s Based on a True Story Tour. He alleges that upon returning to his hotel room in Las Vegas, he discovered evidence suggesting someone had unlawfully entered his space, including a handwritten note addressed to him, personal items belonging to a different individual, and signs of a forced entry. Joseph reported the intrusion to hotel security and tour management but claims his honesty was met with skepticism.
Joseph’s attorney, Jonathan J. Delshad, stated that Joseph endured humiliation, mental and physical distress, and anxiety due to the actions of Smith and others involved in the tour. Delshad emphasized the emotional and psychological toll this incident has had on his client, including the development of PTSD and other mental health issues resulting from the termination.
The lawsuit cites multiple claims against Smith, including violations of the Fair Employment and Housing Act, California labor code, wrongful termination, and sexual harassment. Notably, Delshad argues that Smith was grooming Joseph for potential sexual exploitation since their initial meeting in November 2024, noting expressions Smith allegedly made that suggested a close bond between them.
Joseph is now seeking various forms of damages, including economic compensation and punitive damages, alongside requests for legal fees and other associated costs incurred during the litigation process.
With these allegations coming to light, it raises critical questions regarding workplace safety and accountability for individuals in positions of power. The legal proceedings ahead will likely uncover further details about these claims, as both sides prepare for what could be a lengthy legal battle. The outcomes could not only impact the lives involved but also resonate throughout the entertainment industry, emphasizing the need for transparency and protection against misconduct.