Will Smith cleared as court dismisses sexual harassment lawsuit

A Los Angeles court has dismissed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Will Smith, ruling that the claims lacked sufficient evidence

A Los Angeles court has cleared American actor Will Smith of a sexual harassment case after a judge ruled that the claimant failed to provide sufficient evidence to support the allegations.

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The lawsuit was filed by violinist Brian King Joseph, who accused Will Smith of sexual harassment and wrongful termination during work on the actor’s 2025 “Based on a True Story” tour.

However, Judge Michael Shultz of the Los Angeles Superior Court ruled that the claims did not demonstrate a “severe and pervasive” pattern of misconduct required under the law.

According to court filings, Joseph alleged that an incident in Las Vegas involved his hotel room being unlawfully entered, with strange items and a note left behind. He claimed the experience caused emotional distress and contributed to his removal from the tour.

Joseph further argued that he was wrongfully dismissed after reporting the incident, claiming retaliation from members of the tour management team. He also stated that the situation led to ongoing mental health challenges.

However, the court found no sufficient evidence linking Will Smith or his management team to a pattern of harassment. The judge also noted that Joseph had been able to change his hotel room and return safely after the incident.

Will Smith’s legal representatives dismissed the allegations from the outset, describing them as false and unsubstantiated, and maintained that the actor would continue to pursue legal remedies to protect his reputation.

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Although the case has been dismissed, Joseph has been given a limited window to amend his filing before it is fully closed.