Smokey Robinson’s Defamation Claims Thrown Out in Sexual Assault Legal Battle
Billboard
Last updated: April 24, 2026
A Los Angeles judge has dismissed defamation counterclaims filed by Motown legend Smokey Robinson against former employees. These employees are currently suing Robinson for sexual abuse. This ruling impacts the ongoing legal proceedings between Robinson and his accusers.
- The defamation counterclaims were dismissed by Judge Kevin C. Braz... on Thursday, April 23. Robinson had accused his former employees of making false and damaging statements against him. The judge's decision means these specific claims brought by Robinson will not proceed in court.
- This dismissal does not affect the sexual abuse lawsuit filed by the former employees against Smokey Robinson. The core allegations of sexual abuse remain the subject of the ongoing legal battle. The judge’s ruling focuses solely on the defamation aspect brought by Robinson.
- The legal proceedings are continuing, with the sexual abuse allegations now being the primary focus. Further court actions will likely revolve around the merits of these accusations rather than Robinson's dismissed counterclaims.
