*Will Smith and Treyball Studios Management are facing legal action from violinist Brian King Joseph, who performed during Smith’s “Based on a True Story: 2025” Tour. The complaint includes accusations of sexual harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination, according to Variety.
According to Variety, the suit alleges that Smith engaged in “predatory behavior” and “deliberately groomed and primed Mr. Joseph for further sexual exploitation.”
Joseph was initially brought on board in November 2024 for a San Diego performance before being invited to join the full tour and contribute to Smith’s forthcoming album.
The lawsuit describes how their working relationship developed, with Smith allegedly telling Joseph, “You and I have such a special connection that I don’t have with anyone else.”
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During the tour’s first leg in March 2025, Joseph experienced what he characterizes as a disturbing incident at a Las Vegas hotel. His bag, which held his room key, disappeared for several hours before management returned it. Joseph contends that management members were the “only individuals with access to [his] room.”
Joseph claims he found evidence that his hotel room had been entered without permission. The lawsuit details items allegedly left behind: wipes, HIV medication labeled with someone else’s name, and a note stating, “Brian, I’ll be back no later [sic] 5:30, just us (drawn heart), Stone F.” Joseph interpreted this as indicating that “an unknown individual would soon return to his room to engage in sexual acts” with him. He promptly contacted hotel security, Smith’s team, and police.
Days following his reports, Joseph alleges a management representative accused him of inventing the story and terminated his employment. The lawsuit states Joseph subsequently developed PTSD and experienced financial hardship. He seeks jury-determined damages for the alleged violations.
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