The Guardian logo
BBC News logo
Associated Press logo
5 articles
·4M

Smokey Robinson Faces Serious Allegations in Lawsuit from Former Housekeepers

Four former housekeepers sue Smokey Robinson, alleging sexual assault and workplace abuse, with Robinson’s lawyer calling the claims baseless and attempts at extortion.

Subscribe to unlock this story

We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!

Get Started

Have an account? Sign in

Overview

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Motown legend Smokey Robinson is facing a lawsuit from four former housekeepers who accuse him of sexual assault, battery, and promoting a hostile work environment. The suit, filed in Los Angeles, claims the women endured multiple assaults between 2007 and 2024. Robinson's lawyer denounces the allegations as 'vile' and claims they are attempts to extort $50 million from the iconic singer. The lawsuit also names Robinson's wife for her alleged role in fostering a damaging work environment. The plaintiffs, fearing retaliation, have been reluctant to come forward, complicating the case further.

Written by AI using shared reports from
5 articles
.

Report issue

Pano Newsletter

Read both sides in 5 minutes each day

Analysis

Compare how each side frames the story — including which facts they emphasize or leave out.

  • Smokey Robinson has denied all allegations against him, asserting that the lawsuit filed by former housekeepers is an attempt to extort money from a cultural icon.
  • His attorney describes the claims as 'vile' and 'false', emphasizing the need for the evidence to be evaluated carefully as the case progresses.
  • The accusers, who have come forward under pseudonyms, alleged that they faced multiple forms of assault and violence, but their claims are met with strong denials from Robinson's camp, which questions the credibility of the accusations.

Articles (5)

Compare how different news outlets are covering this story.

FAQ

Dig deeper on this story with frequently asked questions.

The former housekeepers allege that Smokey Robinson engaged in unwanted behavior, including sexual battery, assault, and fostering a hostile work environment.

Smokey Robinson's legal team describes the allegations as baseless and an attempt to extort $50 million, stating that they will vigorously defend against these claims.

The plaintiffs hesitated to come forward due to fear of retaliation.

History

See how this story has evolved over time.

  • This story does not have any previous versions.