Four ex-housekeepers have filed suit against legendary Motown singer Smokey Robinson. They filed a suit against him alleging sexual battery, sexual assault, and creating a hostile work environment. These allegations go beyond sexual harassment to a host of misconduct over multiple years. In their suit, plaintiffs are seeking damages of more than $50 million.
The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles, paints a damning portrait of Robinson’s actions as gay sexual predator, using terms like “despicable and reprehensible misconduct” to describe Robinson’s behavior. The women’s attorney, John Harris, said he was inspired by the bravery of his clients, who spoke out against their alleged abuser.
“These courageous four women have collectively decided to come forward and share their experiences of being sexually assaulted by Mr. Smokey Robinson and stand up for their rights as well as the rights of other women, particularly those that may be victimized by him in the future,” – John Harris
The complaint details alarming abuse witnessed by Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2. Jane Doe 1 claims that Robinson initially assaulted her during an overseas trip in March 2023. The attacks didn’t stop until the administration made her resign in February 2024. Jane Doe 2 claims that her nightmare began in 2007. It started when she drove Robinson to his home in Las Vegas. The public and unwanted sexual advances continued until her eventual resignation.
Harris noted a disturbing pattern among the plaintiffs: “Our four clients have a common thread. They’re Hispanic women who are employed as housekeepers by the Robinsons, earning below minimum wage.” This comment highlights the larger impact this has on workplace morality and treatment of our most transient employees.
Also named as a defendant in the lawsuit is Frances Robinson, Smokey’s wife. In fact, Jane Doe 2 specifically accuses Jane of fostering a “hostile work environment.” She cites examples of being screamed at and called the c-word as a campaign target.
Besides Jane Doe 3, the four plaintiffs consist of Jane Doe 1, who was employed by Robinson from February 2012 until April 2014. A second plaintiff, Jane Doe 4, worked as a housekeeper and a personal assistant to Frances Robinson during the same period, from October 2006 to April 2024. Each woman has bravely shared their experiences to give insight into a culture of abuse that seems to have been systemic in the Robinson residence.
To date, Smokey Robinson has not released any statement addressing the allegations or the lawsuit in general. The litigated case, in particular, has drawn enormous attention. It brings focus to our never-ending fight against workplace harassment and the plight of vulnerable workers.
