Will Smith is facing legal action involving claims of sexual harassment, wrongful termination, and retaliation.
On December 31, Brian King Joseph, a 32-year-old finalist from America’s Got Talent, initiated a lawsuit against the actor, accusing him of “predatory behavior.” The lawsuit includes both Smith and Treyball Studios Management as defendants.
The accusations relate to incidents that allegedly took place during Smith’s ‘Based on a True Story: 2025 Tour,’ where Joseph, a professional violinist, was performing.
According to the lawsuit, Smith is accused of manipulating Joseph for sexual exploitation purposes during the tour, as reported by Variety.
Joseph was part of the tour’s first leg, which began in March 2025 in Las Vegas. That same night, he claims that his hotel room, assigned to him, was unlawfully accessed, and items such as wipes and a bottle of HIV medication were left behind.
A note was also left, stating: “Brian, I’ll be back no later [sic] 5:30, just us (drawn heart), Stone F.”
Fearing an encounter with an unknown individual in his room, Joseph reported the incident to hotel security, a non-emergency police line, and Smith’s management team. However, he alleges that Smith’s team dismissed his concerns and terminated his involvement with the tour, which he believes was retaliation for reporting the incident.
As a consequence, Joseph has experienced PTSD and financial losses, prompting him to file a lawsuit for retaliation, wrongful termination, and sexual harassment.
The 32-year-old is requesting that a jury determine the damages.
In response to the lawsuit, Smith’s attorney, Allen B. Grodsky, spoke to PEOPLE on January 1, stating: “Mr. Joseph’s allegations concerning my client are false, baseless, and reckless.”
“They are categorically denied, and we will use all legal means available to address these claims and to ensure that the truth is brought to light.”
Smith’s representatives have been contacted for further comment. More updates to follow.