Violinist and America’s Got Talent finalist Brian King Joseph has filed a lawsuit against actor and musician Will Smith, alleging sexual harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliation. The suit was filed in Los Angeles and stems from Joseph’s time performing on Smith’s Based on a True Story: 2025 concert tour. The legal action adds to growing scrutiny surrounding Smith’s recent tour and alleges a pattern of misconduct that Joseph says caused severe emotional distress and professional harm.
Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit
According to court documents cited by The Daily Mail, Joseph joined Smith’s tour after performing for the actor at his home. Prior to the alleged incident, Joseph claims he and Smith developed a close working relationship through the tour and the rapper’s latest album.
The lawsuit centers on an incident that allegedly occurred during a tour stop in Las Vegas in March 2025. Joseph claims he returned to his hotel room late at night to find it had been entered without his permission. He alleges a handwritten note was left behind reading, “Brian, I’ll be back… just us,” accompanied by a hand-drawn heart and signed “Stone F.”
Joseph further alleges that several unfamiliar personal items were found in the room, including wipes, a beer bottle, a backpack, an earring, medical paperwork, and prescription medication belonging to an unknown individual.
Fear, Reporting, and Termination
In the filing, Joseph claims he feared that someone would return to his room to engage in unwanted sexual activity. He reported the incident to hotel security, a non-emergency police line, and Smith’s tour management. However, Joseph alleges that instead of receiving support, he was shamed by members of the tour team. He claims he was subsequently fired and replaced on the tour shortly after raising concerns.
The lawsuit asserts that Smith engaged in “predatory behavior” and accuses him of deliberately grooming Joseph for sexual exploitation. It further argues that the hotel incident was not an isolated event but part of a broader pattern.
Statements and Denials
Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, has firmly denied the allegations. In a statement issued on Smith’s behalf, Grodsky described the claims as “false, baseless, and reckless,” adding that they are categorically denied. He said Smith intends to pursue all available legal options to defend himself and bring the truth to light. At this time, Smith has not personally commented on the lawsuit.
Brian King Joseph’s Background
Joseph rose to national prominence in 2018 when he reached the top three on America’s Got Talent, earning widespread recognition for his electric violin performances. Since then, he has built a career blending classical technique with modern pop and electronic music. The lawsuit states that the alleged events have caused Joseph emotional trauma, reputational damage, and economic loss.
Case Ongoing
No court rulings have been made, and the allegations remain unproven. The case is ongoing, and further developments are expected as the legal process unfolds. If you or someone you know is affected by sexual assault, support resources are available. In the U.S., the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
