Smokey Robinson Strikes Back: Counsel Brands Sexual Assault Claim a Shakedown
Here’s a headline that pairs about as well as silk and sandpaper: Smokey Robinson’s legal team has officially declared the recent sexual-assault lawsuit against the Motown legend a “brazen shakedown,” and yes, irony is still legal. According to court records filed May 7, 2025, in Los Angeles Superior Court (TMZ, Variety), an anonymous plaintiff alleges a single incident of unwanted sexual contact at Robinson’s Calabasas estate in October 2017. Lawyers for the plaintiff, identified only as “Jane Doe,” are seeking unspecified damages, though they haven’t spelled out how much reparations will ease the alleged trauma. This denial didn’t come with a side of wine; Gibson Dunn attorney Melanie Hanson fired back with a statement calling the suit “categorically false” and “nothing more than an attempt at extortion.” It’s almost as believable as a unicorn sighting on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Robinson himself remains officially mum, leaving Hanson to carry the rhetorical torch. She insists that her client “never engaged in any non-consensual conduct,” according to People Magazine, and she’s ready to prove it with evidence and witness testimony. Meanwhile, the plaintiff’s legal team claims they possess text messages and eyewitness accounts to bolster their case—though they’ve so far declined to share those goodies in public filings. Smokey’s camp has responded by warning that any attempt to dredge up baseless allegations against an 84-year-old living legend will be met with “vigorous legal opposition” (Rolling Stone). It’s a choice phrase if you’re auditioning for “Lawyer of the Year.”
Most observers are betting on a lengthy court fight rather than an out-of-court settlement. If Robinson’s decades-long reputation for gentlemanly charm holds up, his team may force the plaintiff to either put up or shut up. In the meantime, social media buzz is oscillating between “RIP Smokey’s image” and “Classic defamation trolling.” The plot thickens now that both sides have indicated they’re prepared to subpoena records, secure depositions, and generally turn this courtroom into the next must-watch drama. Tune in next time for more questionable legal maneuvers and the inevitable “my client is innocent” sound bites.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, Variety, People Magazine, Rolling Stone
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
