On May 6, 2025, four former housekeepers filed a $50 million lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court against Motown legend Smokey Robinson, alleging repeated sexual assault, rape, and workplace violations spanning nearly two decades. The suit also names Robinson’s wife, Frances Robinson, accusing her of fostering a hostile work environment and enabling the alleged abuse.
Allegations Detailed in the Lawsuit
The plaintiffs, identified as Jane Does 1 through 4, are Hispanic women who worked for the Robinsons between 2006 and 2024. They claim that Robinson, now 85, sexually assaulted them at his residences in Chatsworth and Bell Canyon, California, as well as in Las Vegas. One woman alleges she was raped at least 23 times between 2014 and 2020, while another reports assaults beginning in 2007.
The lawsuit includes charges of sexual battery, false imprisonment, gender violence, and labor violations. The women allege they were underpaid, denied rest breaks, and subjected to racial harassment by Frances Robinson, who allegedly used ethnically derogatory language and failed to intervene despite knowledge of her husband’s misconduct.
Plaintiffs’ Motivations and Legal Representation
The plaintiffs’ attorney, John Harris, emphasized the power imbalance and the women’s vulnerability due to their low-income status and, in some cases, undocumented immigration status. He stated that fear of retaliation, public shame, and potential immigration consequences deterred them from coming forward sooner.
Robinson’s Response
In a brief statement, Smokey Robinson expressed being “appalled” by the allegations but declined to comment further, citing the ongoing legal proceedings . As of now, no criminal charges have been filed, and law enforcement agencies have not publicly commented on the matter.
Robinson’s attorney Christopher Frost tells TMZ … “As this case progresses, the evidence (the crucial element that guides us) will show that this is simply an ugly method of trying to extract money from an 85-year-old American icon — $50 million, to be exact.”
He adds, “We ask anyone following this case to reserve judgment as the evidence comes to light and all the actual facts of the case unfold.”
The case is ongoing, and further developments will be closely monitored.
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