LOS ANGELES — Recently, Smokey Robinson, the famed Motown musician, faced serious allegations from four former housekeepers who accused him of rape and sexual assault. His attorney, however, has vehemently denied these claims, labeling them as “vile” and “false.” Robinson, at 85, is celebrated as an American icon and his attorney, Christopher Frost, contends that the accusations are merely a malicious attempt to extort money.
A lawsuit seeking at least $50 million in damages was filed against Robinson in Los Angeles Superior Court. Frances Robinson, his wife, is also named in the suit for allegedly supporting his alleged misconduct and fostering a toxic work environment. The women claim the incidents of assault occurred between 2007 and 2024.
Frost emphasized that they would be tackling numerous implausible aspects of the complaint, including issues with timelines and the relationships between the parties involved. The plaintiffs accuse Robinson of waiting until he was alone with them at his Los Angeles home before committing the alleged assaults.
John Harris, representing the accusers, stated during a news conference that Robinson is a “serial and sick rapist” who must be stopped. The Associated Press has not disclosed the identities of the women, who appeared at the conference with their faces covered and refrained from speaking publicly.
Frost criticized the news conference as “bizarre theatrics,” suggesting that it was an attempt to manipulate public opinion and create a sensational media circus. He advised the public to withhold judgment until all the evidence becomes available.
Despite the strong denial from Frost, the attorneys for the plaintiffs, including Herbert Hayden, reaffirmed their support for their clients’ “truthful claims” and described Robinson’s alleged actions as criminal. Each of the four women outlined years of alleged abuse, with one stating she was assaulted at least 20 times between 2012 and 2024, and another reporting 23 incidents between 2014 and 2020.
The women claimed they were eventually forced to leave their jobs due to the assaults, although many stayed silent for years due to fears of retaliation, public embarrassment, or repercussions related to their immigration status. The women’s attorneys have suggested that a criminal investigation might be necessary despite not reporting to the police due to these fears.
The lawsuit seeks damages on several grounds, including sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, and gender violence. Meanwhile, Robinson’s camp has stated that he will soon address the allegations directly and that they plan to ask the court to dismiss the lawsuit.
Known for his contributions to the music industry, Robinson is a celebrated member of both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, renowned for hits such as “Tears of a Clown” and “The Tracks of My Tears.” Throughout the 1960s, Robinson was a pivotal figure in the success of the Motown Records label.