Will Smith Seeks Dismissal of Harassment Lawsuit by Former Violinist

Actor calls grooming allegations "legally baseless" in new court filing.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Will Smith is demanding the dismissal of a sexual harassment lawsuit filed by his former tour violinist, Brian King Joseph. Joseph claims Smith "deliberately groomed" him for "further sexual exploitation" during a 2025 tour, alleging his belongings were tampered with in a Las Vegas hotel room. However, Smith's legal team has characterized the case as an "attempted money grab" with "false and defamatory" claims, citing poor performance as the reason for Joseph's departure from the tour.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges celebrities face with allegations of misconduct, as well as the complexities around power dynamics and consent in the entertainment industry. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.

The details

According to the complaint, Joseph alleges his belongings were tampered with in a Las Vegas hotel room, with items like HIV medication and an earring found in his bag, along with a note that said "Brian, I'll be back...just us," leading him to believe he would be sexually assaulted. However, Smith's legal team has argued the claims are "untrue, inflammatory, legally baseless," and that Joseph was let go due to poor performance, not retaliation.

  • The lawsuit was filed in late 2025.
  • Smith filed a motion to dismiss the case on February 20, 2026.
  • A judge is set to hear arguments regarding the dismissal on April 28, 2026.

The players

Will Smith

An Academy Award-winning actor who is seeking to have the lawsuit against him dismissed.

Brian King Joseph

A former America's Got Talent standout who was a violinist on Smith's 2025 tour and has filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against the actor.

Treyball Studios Management

Smith's company that is also named in the lawsuit.

Jonathan J. Delshad

The attorney representing Brian King Joseph, who has stated they are ready to fight the dismissal motion.

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What they’re saying

“We will oppose the motions and present the facts in court.”

— Jonathan J. Delshad, Attorney for Brian King Joseph (Billboard)

What’s next

A judge is set to hear arguments regarding the dismissal of the case on April 28, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges celebrities face with allegations of misconduct, as well as the complexities around power dynamics and consent in the entertainment industry. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.