In a shocking development, legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson and his wife, Frances Robinson, are facing a lawsuit that alleges a pattern of sexual assault and misconduct spanning nearly two decades. The suit, filed on May 6, 2025, in Los Angeles County Superior Court, seeks a staggering $50 million in damages from the couple, with four anonymous women, identified as Jane Does 1 through 4, claiming that Robinson repeatedly raped them over the years.
The allegations detail a disturbing series of events that reportedly took place at Robinson's home in Chatsworth, California, between 2007 and 2024. The plaintiffs allege that Robinson would summon them to his bedroom, often while his wife was away, where he would force them into sexual acts against their will. According to the lawsuit, "Plaintiffs did not consent to defendant Smokey Robinson’s sexual contact or touching," stated attorney John W. Harris, who represents the women. "They explicitly told defendant Robinson on numerous occasions that they were not interested in his advances and objected to his forceful, physical, sexual and harmful conduct."
Jane Doe 1, who worked for Robinson from January 2023 until February 2024, claims she was assaulted at least seven times during her employment. She described a horrific ritual where Robinson would lure her into his "blue bedroom," lock the door, and proceed to assault her, often while wearing only his underwear. Similarly, Jane Doe 2 alleges she was raped at least 23 times between 2014 and 2020, while Jane Doe 3 claims to have been assaulted at least 20 times from 2012 to 2024. Jane Doe 4, who worked for the Robinsons for 18 years, also recounted experiences of being assaulted but did not specify the number of incidents.
Each of the women reported that they did not come forward with their allegations earlier due to fear of losing their jobs, public embarrassment, and potential repercussions on their immigration status. The lawsuit states that the plaintiffs were intimidated by Robinson's celebrity status, which made them feel powerless to report the alleged abuses. Harris emphasized that the women were low-wage workers who lacked the resources to protect themselves, stating, "As low-wage workers in vulnerable positions, they lacked the resources and options to protect themselves."
Beyond the sexual misconduct allegations, the lawsuit also claims that Frances Robinson created a hostile work environment. The plaintiffs allege that she often berated them with derogatory language and failed to intervene despite being aware of her husband's previous misconduct. According to the lawsuit, "Despite having full knowledge of defendant Smokey Robinson’s conduct, defendant Frances Robinson would further perpetuate hostilities towards plaintiffs instead of preventing further harassment and assaults." The women also assert that they were paid below minimum wage and denied legally mandated breaks.
The lawsuit encompasses a total of 16 claims, including sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and negligence. The plaintiffs are seeking at least $50 million in damages for economic, emotional, and physical harm. The allegations against Robinson are particularly severe, with claims that he engaged in a pattern of sexual violence that exploited the vulnerabilities of his employees.
Robinson, now 85, has been a prominent figure in the music industry, known for his work as a singer, songwriter, and record executive. He was a key player in the Motown Records movement and is celebrated for hits like "The Tracks of My Tears" and "Tears of a Clown." However, these latest allegations threaten to tarnish his legacy. Representatives for Smokey Robinson did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the lawsuit's filing.
The legal battle is expected to unfold in the coming months, with the plaintiffs hoping to bring attention to the issues of workplace harassment and the challenges faced by low-wage workers in reporting such abuses. As the case develops, it raises critical questions about accountability and the abuse of power within celebrity culture.
The lawsuit has garnered significant media attention, and many are watching closely to see how this high-profile case will proceed. The plaintiffs are not only seeking justice for themselves but also hope to shed light on the broader issues of sexual harassment and labor violations that often go unreported in the workplace.
As the public awaits further developments, the impact of these allegations on Robinson's career and personal life remains to be seen. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing and confronting sexual misconduct, particularly in environments where power dynamics can silence victims.
