A violinist who toured with actor and musician Will Smith has initiated legal action against him and a management company, alleging wrongful termination, sexual harassment, and retaliation. The complaint was filed on March 5, 2025, in Los Angeles County Court. Violinist Brian King Joseph claims he was dismissed shortly after reporting an alarming incident involving an unauthorized entry into his hotel room.
According to the lawsuit, Joseph was performing as part of Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour” when he experienced a disturbing breach of privacy in March 2025. The incident occurred in Las Vegas, where Joseph discovered that someone had allegedly entered his hotel room without permission, leaving behind several items, including a note that read: “Brian, I’ll be back no later [sic] 5:30, just us (drawn heart), Stone F.”
Joseph reported the incident to hotel security and informed Smith’s representatives, fearing that the individual might return for inappropriate purposes. He documented the scene with photographs and requested a change of room. The hotel security team found no evidence of forced entry and indicated that access to the room was limited to individuals associated with the management team.
Instead of addressing his concerns, Joseph asserts that the tour management accused him of fabricating the claims and subsequently terminated his contract, stating that the tour was “moving in a different direction.” Shortly thereafter, another violinist was hired to take his place. Joseph believes that Smith was involved in the decision to end his employment and contends that he was being groomed for further exploitation.
The lawsuit details how the incident left Joseph suffering from significant emotional distress, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and economic losses. In a statement to PEOPLE, Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, categorically denied the allegations, describing them as “false, baseless, and reckless.” Grodsky emphasized that they will employ all legal avenues to refute the claims and bring the truth to light.
Joseph initially joined Smith’s tour in late 2024, where he and the actor reportedly developed a close relationship. The lawsuit claims Smith expressed a unique connection with Joseph, stating, “You and I have such a special connection, that I don’t have with anyone else.”
The ongoing legal proceedings not only bring attention to the allegations against Smith but also highlight broader issues of workplace safety and the treatment of individuals in the entertainment industry. As the case unfolds, it raises important questions about accountability and the support systems available for those who experience harassment.
