Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Over Assault Allegations

Sat Feb 07 2026 04:29:08 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

**Smokey Robinson Launches $500 Million Defamation Lawsuit Over Assault Allegations**

Motown Icon Claims Extortion in Response to Sexual Assault Accusations by Former Employees

The music legend disputes the claims and asserts that he and his wife acted with kindness toward the accusers.

Legendary Motown artist Smokey Robinson has initiated a substantial $500 million (£370 million) defamation lawsuit against four former housekeepers who have accused him of sexual assault. The lawsuit, filed on Wednesday in California, argues that the claims made by the women are "false and extremely damaging," and were fabricated as part of an "extortionate" lawsuit against the singer and his wife, Frances.

According to the complaint, the Robinsons have previously shared numerous personal moments with the alleged victims, including family vacations and holiday celebrations. Smokey Robinson, who is also under criminal investigation in Los Angeles regarding these allegations, vehemently denies all claims, asserting that those who have accused him are motivated by financial gain. His legal team has also requested a dismissal of the accusers' lawsuit, highlighting that the women should not have been awarded anonymity.

The plaintiffs filed their case in Los Angeles Superior Court on May 6 under the pseudonyms Jane Doe 1, 2, 3, and 4. Their 27-page complaint outlines several alleged incidents dating back to 2006, stating that Robinson pressured them into sexual encounters. The four women, all of Hispanic descent, have explained that they delayed coming forward due to fears over job security, family repercussions, or being embarrassed, with some expressing concern that the allegations could jeopardize their immigration statuses. They are seeking damages totaling at least $50 million (£38 million) and have requested a jury trial.

In response to the allegations, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has begun an investigation, a process that the 85-year-old Robinson welcomes, asserting, "exposure to the truth is a powerful thing." Robinson, who was the first hitmaker for Motown, is known for his chart-toppers, including classics like "My Girl" and "Tracks of My Tears." With a storied career, he holds places in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and claims to have contributed to over 4,000 songs.