A violinist, Brian King Joseph, has initiated legal action against actor and musician Will Smith and his management company, alleging wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and retaliation. The lawsuit was filed on Tuesday in Los Angeles County and details events surrounding Joseph’s dismissal from Smith’s tour.
The complaint outlines that Joseph was let go shortly after reporting a concerning incident to local authorities. In March 2025, during a tour stop in Las Vegas, Joseph claims that an unknown individual unlawfully entered his hotel room. Items left behind included a backpack, a beer bottle, wipes, a bottle of HIV medication, and a note addressed to him, which raised alarm about potential harassment.
Joseph reported the intrusion to hotel security and Smith’s representatives. He documented the scene with photographs and requested a change of room for his safety. According to the lawsuit, hotel security did not find any signs of forced entry and noted that only individuals affiliated with the management team had access to Joseph’s room.
As detailed in the lawsuit, instead of launching an investigation, tour management allegedly accused Joseph of fabricating the claims, leading to his termination. Joseph asserts he was informed that the tour was “moving in a different direction,” yet shortly thereafter, another violinist was hired to replace him.
The lawsuit indicates that Joseph and Smith had developed a close professional relationship during the tour, with Smith reportedly stating, “You and I have such a special connection, that I don’t have with anyone else.” This context adds complexity to the allegations, as Joseph claims he was being “deliberately groomed” for further exploitation.
Following his termination, Joseph has reported experiencing severe emotional distress, including symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and economic loss. In response to the allegations, Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, categorically denied the claims, labeling them as “false, baseless, and reckless.” Grodsky stated that they would pursue all legal avenues to address the accusations and uncover the truth.
Joseph was hired for Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour” and had been performing with the artist since late 2024. The ongoing legal battle underscores significant issues of workplace safety and harassment in the entertainment industry, highlighting the need for protective measures for artists in touring environments.
This case continues to develop as both parties prepare to present their sides in court.
