Smokey Robinson Speaks Out Following Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Smokey Robinson with Moderator Stevie Van Zandt discuss the new album "What the World Needs Now" at SiriusXM Studios on April 23, 2025 in New York City.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 23: Smokey Robinson with Moderator Stevie Van Zandt discuss the new album “What the World Needs Now” at SiriusXM Studios on April 23, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

Smokey Robinson is appalled following sexual assault lawsuit.

We previously reported that the music legend is facing legal allegations in a $50 million lawsuit filed by four former housekeepers.

“I am appalled,” Robinson stated in a recent statement. Adding, “I can’t speak about this right now.”

According to reports, the women claim they were subjected to years of sexual assault, labor violations, and a hostile work environment while employed at Robinson’s residences between 2007 and 2024. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, also names Robinson’s wife, Frances Robinson, accusing her of enabling the abuse and contributing to the toxic atmosphere.

The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Does 1 through 4, allege repeated incidents of sexual assault, including rape and forced sexual acts, occurring over several years. One woman claims to have been assaulted up to 23 times. The abuse reportedly took place in Robinson’s homes in Chatsworth, Bell Canyon, and Las Vegas. The women also allege they were subjected to false imprisonment, psychological intimidation, and verbal abuse, including ethnic slurs, by Frances Robinson.

In addition to the sexual assault claims, the lawsuit alleges labor violations such as unpaid overtime, lack of rest and meal breaks, and below-minimum-wage pay. The plaintiffs, all Hispanic women, state they were fearful of reporting the abuse due to concerns about their immigration status, financial dependence, and potential retaliation. They also claim that Frances Robinson fostered a hostile work environment by using ethnically derogatory language and failing to intervene despite being aware of the misconduct.

As of now, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office has not received a criminal referral from law enforcement, and the LAPD has made no public comment on the matter. Representatives for Smokey Robinson and Frances Robinson have not yet responded to the allegations. The plaintiffs’ attorneys have expressed a willingness to cooperate with any criminal investigations and emphasized the vulnerability of low-wage workers in such situations.