Judge Dismisses Smokey Robinson Defamation Claim Against Four Sexual Assault Accusers in Los Angeles
A Los Angeles judge has dismissed the defamation component of veteran singer Smokey Robinson’s USD#500 million countersuit against four former housekeepers who allege sexual assault. The women initiated a USD#50 million lawsuit last year, citing sexual battery, false imprisonment, negligence, and gender violence, which prompted a police investigation.
Robinson, 86, has vehemently denied these “vile, false allegations.” His countersuit asserted defamation, specifically citing the women and their lawyers for characterising him as a “serial and sick rapist” during a press conference.
On Thursday, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Kevin Brazile determined there was insufficient “clear and convincing” evidence that the women made their accusations with “actual malice.” Under California law, a public figure pursuing a defamation claim must demonstrate that the accuser either knew the statement was false or harboured serious doubts about its veracity.
Judge Brazile acknowledged “some evidence supporting the Robinsons” but concluded that “the evidence of actual malice does not approach the clear and convincing standard.”
While the defamation claim was dismissed, other aspects of Robinson’s countersuit, including claims of emotional distress and financial elder abuse, are permitted to proceed.
John Harris, legal counsel for the unnamed accusers, hailed the ruling as “a powerful and unequivocal victory for our clients and for survivors everywhere who refuse to be silenced.” Harris further characterised Robinson’s countersuit as “a blatant, retaliatory attempt to intimidate, discredit, and punish women for speaking out about sexual assault.”
The women’s original USD#50 million lawsuit, filed under the pseudonyms Jane Doe, also implicates Robinson’s wife, Frances, alleging her failure to prevent the reported misconduct.
Christopher Frost, the Robinsons’ lawyer, stated his belief that the recent ruling was “incorrect,” asserting that there is “plenty of evidence of actual malice on the part of the attorneys.” Frost reiterated that their primary focus remains on demonstrating that “the Jane Does’ claims are untrue and fabricated.”
In May 2025, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department initiated a criminal investigation into the allegations against Robinson; no charges have been filed to date.
Robinson, a foundational figure in Motown, is credited with over 4,000 songs, including hits like Mary Wells’ ‘My Guy’ and The Temptations’ ‘My Girl.’ He holds inductions in both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.