Los Angeles, California — Four women have filed a lawsuit against R&B icon Smokey Robinson, alleging sexual battery, rape, and other serious offenses. The complaint was submitted to the Los Angeles County Superior Court on Tuesday and names Robinson, as well as his wife, Frances Robinson.
According to the lawsuit, which identifies the plaintiffs only as Jane Does, the women were employed as housekeepers for the Robinsons at the time of the alleged incidents. One of the women claims she was compelled to resign in February 2024 after enduring repeated sexual assaults and harassment from Robinson. Other women in the suit allege that these patterns of misconduct began as far back as 2007.
The complaint also accuses Robinson of inflicting emotional distress, false imprisonment, and gender violence. It details numerous instances where the plaintiffs assert they faced illegal working conditions and significant psychological strain due to their experiences. The plaintiffs are represented by the law firm Harris & Hayden.
During a press conference on Tuesday, attorney John Harris referred to Robinson as a “serial assaulter,” claiming that the women did not come forward sooner because they feared retaliation from the well-known musician. Harris emphasized that the women were low-wage workers, often living paycheck to paycheck, and felt intimidated by Robinson’s fame. He noted that there had been threats made, although he did not elaborate on their specifics.
The attorneys representing the plaintiffs are pursuing $50 million in damages. They stated that, to date, the women have not filed any police reports regarding the allegations.
Robinson, now 85, is celebrated as one of the founding figures of Motown music and the former frontman of The Miracles. He is renowned for classic hits such as “The Tears of a Clown” and “I Second That Emotion.” In addition to his musical career, Robinson served as vice president of Motown Records, solidifying his influential role in the music industry.
As of now, representatives for Robinson have not commented on the claims. The legal proceedings are expected to draw significant attention due to the high-profile nature of both the case and the individual involved.