Joseph v. Will Smith et. al.

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Joseph V. Smith / Treyball Studios

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• Complaint Filed. (Click for Full Copy).
• Assigned Case Number 25STCV38237
• Assigned to Judge Michael Shultz (Dept 40)
• Waiting on Service of Process

Will Smith sued by violinist who claims he was fired after reporting sexual harassment during 2025 tour

In a complaint filed Jan 2026 in the Los Angeles Superior Court, plaintiff Brian King Joseph is best known as a finalist on season 13 of America’s Got Talent (2018), where he finished in third place. Often called “The King of Violin,” he is recognized for his high-energy, modern interpretations of popular songs and his resilience in the face of a chronic health condition. Retaliation & Wrongful Termination: Joseph claims he was fired from Smith’s “Based on a True Story” tour after reporting a March 2025 incident in Las Vegas where an unknown person entered his hotel room and left sexual items and a message.

Joseph is seeking compensation for personal and financial damages. He claims he made significant financial investments in preparation for the tour, which ran from July to early September, and says he now suffers from major psychological damage and PTSD as a result of the alleged incident and his firing.

Press Coverage

• Violinist Sues Will Smith, Tour Company for Alleged Retaliation After Reporting Vegas Hotel Room Intrusion
• Newsweek - Will Smith Lawsuit: Actor Accused of Sexual ‘Grooming’

• USA Today - Will Smith sued by tour violinist for retaliation, sexual harassment

• Mint - Will Smith sued by violinist who claims he was fired after reporting sexual harassment during 2025 tour: Report