Actor Will Smith is facing a lawsuit from violinist Brian King Joseph, who claims he was terminated for reporting sexual harassment. Joseph has initiated legal proceedings against Smith and his company, Treyball Studios Management, Inc., alleging a distressing series of events during the 2025 global tour “Based on a True Story: 2025,” culminating in his removal after raising concerns.
Smith’s legal representative refuted the accusations, stating that Joseph’s claims are unfounded and will be vigorously contested through legal channels to reveal the truth.
In a recent filing in the California Superior Court, Joseph, a former contestant on America’s Got Talent, recounted discovering a troubling message in his Las Vegas hotel room left by an unauthorized individual, containing items implying a sexual threat and violence towards him, along with a note signed “Stone F.”
The lawsuit further alleged that Smith had been engaging in behavior to prepare for further exploitation of Joseph, citing instances where Smith indicated a “special connection” between them that he did not share with others.
Additionally, the complaint highlighted an incident where Joseph’s belongings, including his hotel key, were lost by Smith’s management, leading to the intrusion in his room. Joseph reported the incident to hotel staff, local authorities, and Smith’s team, only to face alleged intimidation and threats of dismissal.
The lawsuit contends that Joseph’s termination was retaliatory, with a replacement violinist swiftly hired to mask his removal from the tour. Joseph claims to have suffered from PTSD and other mental health issues post-incident, seeking compensation for emotional distress, financial losses, reputational harm, and other damages.