Country music star Garth Brooks has been accused of sexual assault and battery by a former makeup artist in a lawsuit filed on Thursday.
The plaintiff, referred to as “Jane Roe” in court documents, claims that Brooks raped her during a 2019 work trip to Los Angeles. Roe, who began working for Brooks in 2017 after initially being hired to do makeup for his wife, Trisha Yearwood, alleges that the assault occurred when the two were forced to share a hotel room.
According to the lawsuit, Brooks appeared naked in the doorway of the shared room, allegedly leading to the assault.
The lawsuit also accuses Brooks of repeated inappropriate behaviour, including exposing himself, making explicit remarks, and sending sexually charged messages, all of which intensified after the 2019 incident.
In response, Brooks has filed a lawsuit under the pseudonym “John Doe,” denying the allegations and accusing the makeup artist of attempting to extort millions of dollars.
In a public statement, Brooks stated, “Hush money, no matter how much or how little, is still hush money… We filed suit to speak out against extortion and defamation of character.” He maintained his innocence, saying he had faith in the legal process.
The lawsuit is seeking monetary damages and a trial by jury.
Attorneys for the plaintiff commended her bravery and described Brooks’ preemptive legal action as “an act of desperation and attempted intimidation.” They encouraged any other potential victims to come forward.
