Will Smith Files Motion to Strike Violinist's Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Smith's lawyers allege the lawsuit is a 'desperate attempt to shake the star down for cash'.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Will Smith is asking a judge to dismiss a sexual harassment lawsuit filed against him by violinist Brian King Joseph. Smith's legal team argues the lawsuit is a 'frivolous' attempt by Joseph to extort money, claiming there is no evidence Smith was ever alone with Joseph or that he 'groomed' him as alleged.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges celebrities face with unfounded legal claims, as well as the difficulties in proving or disproving allegations of misconduct when there are no clear witnesses or evidence. The outcome could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future.

The details

In the lawsuit, Joseph claimed he found a note, personal items, and medication in his hotel room that he believed belonged to Smith after a performance. However, Smith's lawyers argue Joseph admits he doesn't know who left the items. They also state Joseph was only hired on a per-show basis and was not promised a permanent position, and that he was let go due to 'erratic behavior' that made other band members uncomfortable.

  • On January 15, 2026, violinist Brian King Joseph filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Will Smith.
  • On February 27, 2026, Smith's legal team filed a motion to strike Joseph's lawsuit, calling it a 'frivolous' attempt to extort money.

The players

Will Smith

A renowned American actor, producer, and rapper who is being sued for sexual harassment by a former band member.

Brian King Joseph

A violinist who filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Will Smith, claiming he found personal items in his hotel room that he believed belonged to Smith.

Treyball Studios

Will Smith's production company that is also named in the lawsuit filed by Brian King Joseph.

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What they’re saying

“Will Smith is asking a judge to throw out the sexual harassment lawsuit against him ... with his lawyer alleging that the filing is just a desperate attempt to shake the star down for cash.”

— TMZ Staff (TMZ)

What’s next

The judge will decide whether to grant Smith's motion to strike the lawsuit filed by Brian King Joseph.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges celebrities face with unsubstantiated legal claims, as well as the difficulties in proving or disproving allegations of misconduct when there is a lack of clear evidence. The outcome could set an important precedent for how such cases are handled in the future.