Motown icon Smokey Robinson is facing serious allegations of sexual assault and workplace misconduct, according to a complaint filed Tuesday at a Los Angeles courthouse. Four former employees, identified anonymously as Jane Does, have accused the 85-year-old singer of repeated sexual assault and harassment during their time working as housekeepers for Robinson and his wife, Frances, between 2006 and 2024. The lawsuit details disturbing claims from each woman.
Jane Doe 1 alleges Robinson sexually assaulted her at least seven times between 2023 and 2024, often on Saturdays when he was alone at home. Jane Doe 2 claims Robinson raped or assaulted her on at least 23 occasions between 2016 and 2020, frequently summoning her to isolated areas such as the laundry room or garage, which lacked surveillance cameras.
Jane Doe 3 alleges she was raped at least 20 times between 2012 and 2024. She also claims Robinson once offered her $500 to perform a sexual act, which she refused. Jane Doe 4, who worked not only as a housekeeper but also as Frances Robinson’s assistant, cook, and hairdresser, alleges she was raped in multiple residences, including Robinson’s Las Vegas home in 2007.
The complaint further accuses Frances Robinson of contributing to a hostile work environment by verbally abusing the employees and ignoring her husband’s misconduct. All four plaintiffs also allege wage violations, including unpaid overtime, lack of breaks, and sub-minimum wages.
The women are seeking at least $50 million in damages, plus additional punitive compensation.
Smokey Robinson, a pivotal figure in the rise of Motown, rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me” and “The Tears of a Clown.” In addition to his work with The Miracles, he has written for legendary acts such as Marvin Gaye and The Temptations. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy in 1999.
Robinson has not yet publicly responded to the allegations.
Written By Rodney Mbua.
