Smokey Robinson Countersues for $500 Million After Sexual Assault Allegations
Not too long ago, 4 ladies filed a $50 million lawsuit towards Smokey Robinson, the 85-year-old soul legend and Motown pioneer, accusing him of repeated sexual assault, harassment, and psychological abuse over a interval of greater than ten years. The plaintiffs—recognized in courtroom as Jane Does 1 by 4—allege that Robinson used his fame, wealth, and affect to use them whereas they labored as housekeepers and private assistants at his Los Angeles residence.
In response to the lawsuit, Robinson subjected the ladies to “undesirable and repeated sexual advances,” together with situations of rape and coercion. The ladies additionally declare they had been threatened with retaliation in the event that they spoke out, with one saying she was instructed her immigration standing might be focused if she ever went to the police.
Much more stunning, the civil go well with additionally implicates Smokey’s spouse, Frances Glandney Robinson. Accusing her of making a hostile work surroundings and enabling the alleged abuse by ignoring complaints and making derogatory remarks towards the ladies.
Whereas the allegations have sparked outrage and renewed conversations round abuse within the leisure trade, Robinson is combating again—aggressively.
A Profession That Helped Outline Motown
Smokey Robinson is likely one of the most celebrated figures in American music historical past. Born in 1940, he helped form the sound of Motown Information, each as a performer and a prolific songwriter.
Because the lead singer of The Miracles, Robinson delivered timeless hits like “The Tracks of My Tears,” “Store Round,” and “Tears of a Clown.” Past his vocal work, he’s credited with writing and producing chart-topping hits. Particularly, for artists like The Temptations, Mary Wells, and Marvin Gaye.
With a profession spanning over six a long time, he’s earned accolades together with:
- Induction into the Rock & Roll Corridor of Fame
- Nationwide Medal of Arts
- Lifetime Achievement Awards from BET and the Grammy Awards
Robinson’s title is synonymous with a clean-cut, romantic model of soul music that has lengthy evaded scandal—till now.
Smokey Robinson Responds with $500 Million Defamation Countersuit
Simply weeks after the unique grievance was filed, Robinson filed a $500 million countersuit towards the 4 accusers. The countersuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court docket on Might 28, alleges defamation, intentional infliction of emotional misery, and monetary elder abuse.
Robinson’s authorized crew argues that the claims are totally fabricated. In the end, representing a “coordinated try to extort cash from a weak, aged superstar.” His attorneys say the ladies initially demanded a $100 million payout in trade for silence, and solely proceeded with a public lawsuit when Robinson refused to settle.
“These baseless allegations had been designed to not search justice, however to break Mr. Robinson’s sterling legacy and power him right into a monetary settlement below duress,” reads the authorized submitting.
The singer is looking for damages for what his crew calls a “devastating blow” to each his private status and his skilled legacy. As probably the most iconic voices in American music historical past, Robinson’s model and catalog proceed to generate income. Particularly, by excursions, licensing, and media appearances—making public accusations all of the extra damaging.
Lively Legal Investigation Underway
Including to the depth of the scenario, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Division has launched an energetic felony investigation into the sexual assault claims. Whereas the civil go well with is continuing, the end result of the felony probe might have extra severe penalties for Robinson if any fees are filed.
To date, regulation enforcement has not confirmed whether or not Robinson has been formally interviewed or whether or not any fees are imminent. Nonetheless, Robinson’s lawyer claims the police report was solely filed after the accusers’ attorneys approached him for a monetary settlement—suggesting the transfer was strategic slightly than pushed by justice.
“Submitting a police report after failing to safe a $100 million payout speaks volumes about intent,” his spokesperson stated in a public assertion.
Robinson’s Defamation Lawsuit Highlights New Pattern in Authorized Techniques
Robinson is just not alone in aggressively pushing again towards sexual misconduct claims with huge defamation lawsuits. Lately, a number of high-profile males have turned to this authorized technique to counter what they are saying are false allegations:
Sean “Diddy” Combs
At present dealing with a sweeping federal investigation and felony trial, Diddy has been accused by a number of people of intercourse trafficking. Along with coercion, and violent abuse. He denies all fees. Whereas Diddy hasn’t filed a defamation countersuit but, authorized specialists say it’s a risk. Particularly, if he’s acquitted or sees the costs dropped.
Shannon Sharpe
NFL Corridor of Famer and TV host Shannon Sharpe is embroiled in a $50 million lawsuit alleging sexual assault, coercion, and threats. Like Robinson, Sharpe has denied the allegations and claims the lady concerned was in a consensual relationship with him. His authorized crew has hinted that defamation or malicious prosecution lawsuits might be filed if the case collapses.
Public Response: Assist, Skepticism, and Silence
The general public response to the Smokey Robinson case has been blended. Some longtime followers have rushed to defend the Motown icon. Pointing to his spotless file and philanthropic work. Whereas others consider it’s one other occasion of energy shielding predatory habits.
On social media, hashtags like #JusticeForJaneDoes and #IStandWithSmokey have trended at totally different occasions. Additional, illustrating the cultural divide when beloved celebrities are accused of wrongdoing.
Celebrities and music trade friends have largely remained silent—seemingly awaiting the end result of the investigation earlier than talking publicly. It’s a reminder of how status administration within the post-#MeToo period continues to be extremely delicate.
Can Robinson Rebuild His Picture?
Whether or not Smokey Robinson can get well from this stays to be seen. Whereas a defamation countersuit might clear his title legally, public opinion is usually more durable to sway. At 85 years previous, Robinson has already entered legacy standing—however legacy doesn’t at all times shield towards trendy scrutiny.
If the allegations are confirmed false, the defamation countersuit might turn out to be a precedent-setting instance of how falsely accused public figures can battle again. But when the felony investigation results in fees, his authorized maneuvering might backfire. In the end, casting him in an excellent darker gentle.
Ultimate Ideas: A Authorized and Cultural Crossroads
Smokey Robinson’s $500 million countersuit locations him on the heart of a authorized and cultural reckoning. It raises questions concerning the stability between believing accusers and guaranteeing due course of, about legacy safety versus accountability, and about how fame intersects with justice.
Whereas the courts deliberate on the information, the courtroom of public opinion is already in session.
