Violinist Files Lawsuit Against Will Smith Alleging Wrongful Termination and Sexual Harassment

By Rob Redding

Editor & Publisher

NEW YORK, Jan. 2, 2025, 1 p.m. — A professional violinist who performed alongside Will Smith on the "Based On A True Story: 2025 Tour" has filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles, alleging retaliation, sexual harassment, and wrongful termination.

According to court documents, Brian King Joseph was dismissed shortly after reporting a suspicious incident in his hotel room during the tour. In March 2025, Joseph discovered unusual items including wipes, a beer bottle, HIV medication, and a note left in his hotel room while he was away. Fearing for his safety, he reported the intrusion to hotel security and local police, capturing photos of the scene.

Despite security finding no forced entry, tour management accused Joseph of fabricating the incident and terminated his employment. He claims that Will Smith was involved in the decision to fire him and that the incident was part of a pattern of grooming for exploitation.

Joseph's lawsuit states that the incident caused him severe emotional distress, PTSD, and economic loss. Recently, he shared an Instagram video hinting at the legal case. In the video, he called out the dangers of reporting misconduct and urged others to stand up for their rights.

Will Smith's representatives have denied the allegations. They stated that Joseph's claims are false and baseless. A statement from Smith's attorney emphasized their intention to pursue all legal avenues to clear his name.

Rob Redding is the author of the forthcoming book Black Power in the Age of Artificial Supremacy Featuring Redding-Shim Kwet Yung out on Jan. 5, 2026. He is the bestselling author of 17 books. He is the host of Redding News Review Unrestricted and creator of ReddingNewsReview.com. He is also an emerging visual artist who lives and teaches at two colleges in New York City.