Los Angeles, California — Four former employees of musician Smokey Robinson are seeking $50 million in damages, alleging a pattern of sexual assault and a hostile work environment. The lawsuit, filed in superior court, accuses the 85-year-old singer of sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence, and gender-based violence, alongside several labor law violations related to wages and working conditions.
The complaint also cites Robinson’s wife, Frances, claiming her actions contributed to an environment marked by discriminatory remarks and hostility. Representatives for the Robinsons have not yet commented on the allegations.
Robinson, a renowned figure in the music industry, played a pivotal role in the Motown label’s success, penning numerous chart-topping hits like “My Guy” and “My Girl.” His illustrious career has earned him a place in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Despite his influential status, the attorney for the plaintiffs, John Harris, emphasized that the women felt powerless in light of his fame, which compounded their vulnerability.
The plaintiffs, referred to by the pseudonyms Jane Doe 1 through 4, allege that the incidents occurred while they were employed in various capacities, including as housekeepers and personal assistants. According to the lawsuit, the alleged incidents of sexual assault began in 2006 and unfolded in private areas of Robinson’s homes in Chatsworth, Bell Canyon, and Las Vegas, often when his wife was absent.
Specific claims detail instances where Robinson purportedly summoned the women for encounters that he initiated under coercive conditions, sometimes emerging from showers inappropriately and demanding sexual acts. In particular, one plaintiff alleges she was raped in a laundry room where surveillance cameras failed to capture the events.
The lawsuit not only addresses the sexual misconduct but also alleges significant violations of labor laws. The plaintiffs assert they regularly worked ten-hour shifts across six days a week without receiving minimum wage or overtime compensation. They asserted that dissatisfaction with their treatment—coupled with allegations of sexual misconduct—ultimately forced them to resign.
No criminal charges have been filed against Robinson, and police have stated they are not currently reviewing the case, as law enforcement has not received a formal complaint. As the situation develops, the implications for Robinson’s career and personal life may resonate deeply within both the music industry and the broader public.
The allegations illustrate a troubling dynamic where those in positions of power reportedly exploit their influence, creating precarious situations for employees seeking to sustain their livelihoods. The ongoing legal proceedings could further illuminate the challenges faced by workers in similar capacities, highlighting issues of justice and accountability in the workplace.