Los Angeles, California – Smokey Robinson has firmly rejected allegations of sexual assault made by four former housekeepers who filed a lawsuit against the renowned Motown artist. The complaint, lodged on May 6 in a Los Angeles court, includes claims of sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence, and gender violence, alongside accusations of labor violations.
The lawsuit contends that Robinson and his wife, Frances, failed to pay the housekeepers minimum wage and overtime, provided inaccurate wage statements, and maintained a hostile work environment. The plaintiffs are seeking $50 million in damages.
Christopher Frost, Robinson’s attorney, labeled the lawsuit as an “ugly method” to extort funds from an 85-year-old music icon. He characterized the accusations as “vile” and “false,” asserting that they lack credibility and contain discrepancies concerning timelines and relationships among the plaintiffs and others involved.
Frost further criticized the plaintiffs’ legal representatives for employing what he termed “bizarre theatrics” in their pursuit, suggesting that they aim to create a media spectacle involving the public.
Over his storied career, Robinson has established himself as one of pop music’s most successful singer-songwriters, producing hits like “Tears of a Clown” with the Miracles and writing classics for artists such as Mary Wells and Marvin Gaye. The allegations reportedly span from 2007 to 2024, with the women asserting that the incidents occurred at Robinson’s estate in Chatsworth, California, as well as residences in Las Vegas and Bell Canyon, California.
Legal representatives for the women argue that their low-wage status rendered them vulnerable and ill-equipped to defend themselves against the alleged assaults. They described Robinson as a “serial and sick rapist” who needs to be held accountable for his actions.
Frances Robinson is accused within the suit of using derogatory language and being complicit in the alleged misconduct, with claims that she exploited their social standing to maintain control over the plaintiffs. Her lawyer, Herbert Hayden, asserted that she was aware of her husband’s actions and used the economic reliance of the housekeepers to their disadvantage.
Frost confirmed that Robinson plans to provide his perspective on the situation and will seek to dismiss the lawsuit through a formal motion. The allegations and the ensuing legal battle have garnered significant attention, highlighting complex issues surrounding power dynamics and workplace rights.