A violinist who toured with Will Smith has initiated a lawsuit against the actor and a management company, alleging wrongful termination and sexual harassment. The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday in Los Angeles County, claims that Brian King Joseph faced retaliation after reporting an incident in which an unidentified person entered his hotel room and left various items, including a note addressed to him.
The complaint details an unsettling event that occurred in March 2025 during Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour.” Joseph alleges that while he was away from his hotel room in Las Vegas, someone unlawfully entered and left a beer bottle, a backpack, wipes, and hospital discharge paperwork belonging to another individual. The note found in his room included a message that read: “Brian, I’ll be back no later [sic] 5:30, just us (drawn heart), Stone F.”
In response to this incident, Joseph reported the situation to hotel security, took photographs of the items, and requested a room change. He also contacted police through a non-emergency line to document the occurrence. The lawsuit states that hotel security did not find any signs of forced entry and noted that only members of the management team had access to his room.
Following Joseph’s report, he claims that instead of launching an investigation, the tour management accused him of fabricating the claims, ultimately terminating his employment. The lawsuit states that he was informed the tour was “moving in a different direction,” yet another violinist was hired shortly after to fill his position. Joseph asserts that he believes Smith played a role in the decision to dismiss him.
The lawsuit paints a troubling picture, alleging that Joseph was subjected to grooming and preparation for “further sexual exploitation.” Following his termination, Joseph reported experiencing severe emotional distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and economic losses.
In response to the lawsuit, Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, categorically denied the allegations. In a statement provided to PEOPLE, Grodsky described Joseph’s claims as “false, baseless, and reckless,” and emphasized that they would pursue all legal avenues to address these assertions and reveal the truth.
Joseph’s claims highlight serious concerns about workplace safety and the treatment of performers in the entertainment industry. As the case unfolds, it raises important questions about accountability and the protections available to individuals in similar situations.
This lawsuit follows a growing trend of performers and artists speaking out about their experiences, aiming to bring issues of harassment and misconduct to the forefront of public awareness. As details emerge, both parties are preparing for a legal battle that could have significant implications for the entertainment community.
