Smokey Robinson Files $500 Million Defamation Countersuit Against Sexual Assault Accusers

On May 28, 2025, Motown legend Smokey Robinson and his wife, Frances Robinson, filed a $500 million defamation countersuit against four former housekeepers who had previously accused him of sexual assault. The countersuit, lodged in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleges that the women’s claims are part of an “extortionate plan” to damage Robinson’s reputation and extract money from the couple. 

The original lawsuit, filed earlier this month, accuses Robinson of repeated sexual assaults between 2007 and 2024 and seeks $50 million in damages. Frances Robinson is also named in the initial complaint for allegedly failing to prevent the alleged abuse. 

In their countersuit, the Robinsons claim they treated the plaintiffs like extended family, providing them with gifts and support over the years. They argue that the allegations are false and have caused significant emotional distress. 

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has launched a criminal investigation into the allegations. The plaintiffs’ attorneys have stated that they will file an anti-SLAPP motion against the Robinsons’ countersuit, asserting that it is an attempt to silence and intimidate survivors of sexual assault. 

This legal battle continues to unfold, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives and the court tasked with determining the veracity of the claims.