Los Angeles, California — Smokey Robinson, the legendary R&B singer, is facing serious allegations from four women who claim he committed acts of sexual misconduct during their employment as housekeepers. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, accuses the 85-year-old artist of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and maintaining a hostile work environment, among other charges. His wife, Frances Robinson, is also named in the complaint.
The plaintiffs, who chose to remain anonymous for their protection, allege they were employed by the couple at various times between 2012 and 2024. Allegations detailed in the court documents paint a troubling picture, suggesting a pattern of abuse that spans years.
One accuser, referred to as Jane Doe 1, worked for the couple from January 2023 until February 2024. She alleges that Robinson began sexually assaulting her in March 2023, claiming the incidents occurred multiple times during her employment. According to her account, Robinson would prepare for these encounters by locking the door to his bedroom, where she was summoned after he returned home from outings with his wife.
Another accuser, Jane Doe 2, alleges that she was assaulted at least 23 times from May 2014 to February 2020. She described Robinson’s advances as “brutal” and “predictable,” asserting that he would call her into areas where there were no cameras and subject her to various forms of sexual violence. Her claims detail a cycle of manipulation, where refusal to comply with his demands led to threats regarding her treatment by Frances.
A third accuser, Jane Doe 3, worked for Robinson from February 2012 until April 2024 and claims she was assaulted on at least 20 occasions. Her allegations echo those of the others, describing similar tactics employed by Robinson to isolate her before committing acts of violence.
The final accuser, Jane Doe 4, alleges that she was subjected to abuse across multiple roles, including housekeeper and personal assistant, from October 2006 until April 2024. She claims that Robinson first assaulted her in 2007 during a trip to Las Vegas and later described being attacked again at his temporary residence. Her account includes details of repeated instances where she was summoned, isolated, and assaulted.
All four women state that they feared losing their jobs or facing public humiliation if they reported the incidents. They also allege that Frances Robinson failed to intervene, despite allegedly being aware of her husband’s prior misconduct. Additionally, the lawsuit claims that the plaintiffs were not compensated properly for overtime and did not receive mandated breaks during their employment.
These allegations arrive shortly after the release of Robinson’s new album, “What the World Needs Now,” highlighting a stark contrast between his career and the serious charges against him. Robinson is celebrated for his contributions to the music industry, having co-founded the Miracles and played a significant role at Motown Records. He has received numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, marking him as one of the defining voices in American music.
In light of these serious allegations, the future of Robinson’s esteemed career hangs in the balance. As the legal process unfolds, the claims of these former employees shine a light on issues of power and exploitation within the workplace, calling into question the responsibilities of those in positions of authority.
Robinson’s representatives have been contacted for comments regarding the lawsuit, but no statement has been issued as of yet. The outcome of this case may have significant implications not only for the music legend but also for how similar allegations are addressed in the entertainment industry.