Context:

Smokey Robinson faces a lawsuit from four former housekeepers alleging rape and sexual assault, which his lawyer describes as 'vile' and 'false.' The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, demands at least $50 million in damages for incidents purportedly occurring between 2007 and 2024, involving Robinson and his wife Frances. Attorney Christopher Frost argues that the claims are an attempt to extract money from Robinson and promises to address inconsistencies and timelines in the complaint. The accusers, represented by attorney John Harris, claim Robinson assaulted them repeatedly during their employment, yet they delayed coming forward due to fears of retaliation and immigration issues. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Frost urges the public to withhold judgment until the evidence is fully presented in court.

Dive Deeper:

• Smokey Robinson and his wife Frances are named in a lawsuit for alleged rape and sexual assault by four former housekeepers, with the plaintiffs seeking over $50 million in damages.

• Robinson's lawyer, Christopher Frost, vehemently denies the allegations, labeling them as attempts to extort money from the 85-year-old musician and promises to challenge the plaintiffs' claims in court.

• The accusations involve repeated assaults spanning several years, with one woman alleging over 20 incidents during her employment from 2012 to 2024, and another claiming at least 23 assaults between 2014 and 2020.

• The accusers assert they refrained from reporting the incidents earlier due to fears of retaliation, public shame, and potential impacts on their immigration status, although they believe a criminal investigation is warranted.

• At a news conference, the accusers' attorney John Harris described Robinson as a 'serial and sick rapist,' while the women remained anonymous, covering their faces to maintain privacy.

• Smokey Robinson, celebrated for his contributions to Motown music as both a performer and songwriter, plans to address the allegations himself and seek dismissal of the lawsuit.

• Frost criticizes the accusers' public approach as 'bizarre theatrics' and urges the public to reserve judgment, emphasizing the need for all facts to be revealed in court.