Smokey Robinson has publicly refuted alarming new accusations of sexual assault, asserting through his legal representative that these “disturbing, unfounded allegations” represent “a deplorable tactic aimed at extracting money from an 85-year-old American icon.”
In a detailed statement released on Wednesday (May 7), attorney Christopher Frost emphasized that he will “vigorously defend” both Smokey Robinson and his spouse, Frances Robinson, against the staggering $50 million lawsuit. The suit alleges that the R&B legend committed rape against four different housekeepers over a span of nearly two decades, calling into question his character and legacy.
Frost articulated, “As this legal matter unfolds, the evidence — which is the fundamental element guiding us — will reveal that this is simply an abhorrent tactic designed to extract $50 million from an esteemed American icon.” The gravity of the claims has raised eyebrows, but Frost insists the truth will surface as the case progresses.
The attorney further indicated he intends to submit a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, addressing “numerous facets of the complaint that defy belief, as well as issues concerning the alleged timelines, inconsistencies, and the relationships between the plaintiffs and others involved.” This comprehensive legal strategy aims to dismantle the accusations against Robinson and his wife.
As of Wednesday, the attorneys representing the plaintiffs had not responded to inquiries for comment regarding the case. This silence raises questions about the validity and motives behind the allegations being leveled against the iconic singer and his wife.
This statement emerges just a day after Smokey and Frances Robinson were named in a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles state court by four former housekeepers. The plaintiffs, who are suing anonymously, allege that Smokey Robinson coerced them into engaging in both oral and vaginal sex in his bedroom numerous times between 2007 and 2024, shedding light on a troubling narrative.
The housekeepers further allege that Frances shares culpability as she allegedly did nothing to prevent the purported misconduct, despite being aware of her husband’s alleged history of sexual misconduct and previous settlements with victims of similar claims. This accusation raises significant ethical questions about her role in the alleged incidents.
The lawsuit also claims that the Robinsons paid their employees below the legal minimum wage and that Frances Robinson fostered a hostile working environment characterized by yelling and the use of “racially-charged epithets.” These serious allegations against the couple could have far-reaching repercussions on their reputations and social standing.
Details regarding the settlements mentioned in the lawsuit remain largely unreported, and there appears to be no public record of earlier sexual assault lawsuits against Smokey Robinson. This suggests that, if legitimate, any settlements were likely made confidentially, evading public scrutiny and potentially shielding damaging information from surfacing.
However, the celebrated R&B singer and music executive is no stranger to courtroom battles. In 2023, Robinson testified at a federal jury trial regarding allegations that he failed to compensate a former manager nearly $1 million, showcasing his legal entanglements beyond personal accusations.
The jury predominantly sided with Robinson in this case, concluding that the former manager, Eric Podwall, was not entitled to receive any touring profits according to his contract. Ultimately, Podwall was awarded a mere $2,000 for an unpaid record advance, marking the end of a lengthy legal struggle that extended over six years.
UPDATE: Later on Wednesday (May 7), lawyers John Harris and Herbert Hayden, representing the housekeepers pursuing legal action against Smokey and Frances Robinson, released a statement in response to Frost’s remarks: “We stand firmly behind our four clients’ truthful allegations, which are neither false nor vile, but rather clearly articulate Mr. Robinson’s reprehensible criminal actions.”
