Former NFL Star Steve Smith Sr. Sued for Over \$100,000 in Civil Lawsuit Alleging Marital Interference Under North Carolina’s “Homewrecker Law”

Steve Smith Sr., a former Pro Bowl wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers and current NFL Network analyst, faces a civil lawsuit in North Carolina by Antonio Martinez. The suit alleges that Smith knowingly engaged in a months-long extramarital affair with Martinez’s wife, Nicole, a member of the Baltimore Ravens marching band. Martinez is seeking over \$100,000 in compensatory and punitive damages under the state’s unique “alienation of affection” law.

North Carolina remains one of a few states that recognize this tort, often called the “homewrecker law,” which permits a spouse to sue a third party for their role in a marriage’s breakdown.

Allegations of a Prolonged Affair Between Smith and Nicole Martinez During NFL Network Filming in Baltimore

According to the court filings, Smith first met Nicole Martinez in September 2024 while filming an episode of The NFL’s Most Interesting Jobs with Steve Smith for NFL Network. The episode featured Smith participating in a segment with the Baltimore Ravens marching band, during which he allegedly made initial contact with Nicole.

The complaint details that following their introduction, the two began engaging in frequent personal communication, including explicit text exchanges and calls. Martinez alleges that this communication escalated into a physical relationship, culminating in a hotel encounter in Baltimore in January 2025 when Smith was in town for a Ravens playoff game.

Martinez asserts that the affair continued over several months without his knowledge and that his discovery of the infidelity in February 2025 resulted in significant emotional harm and marital breakdown.

Discovery of the Affair and Smith’s Alleged Admission During a Recorded Phone Call

Martinez claims he uncovered the affair after accessing his wife’s phone and discovering sexually explicit messages between her and Smith. He alleges that when confronted, Nicole admitted to the affair and provided further details, including Smith’s hotel stay in January.

The lawsuit states that Martinez later contacted Smith directly by phone, during which Smith allegedly apologized for his involvement with Nicole. Martinez recorded the call and briefly posted audio clips and screenshots of text messages on social media before deleting them later.

This alleged admission forms a significant part of Martinez’s case, as it is presented as evidence of Smith’s awareness and willful participation in the relationship.

Legal Grounds Cited in the Complaint: Alienation of Affection and Emotional Distress Claims

Martinez’s lawsuit is anchored primarily in North Carolina’s alienation of affection statute. To succeed in this claim, the plaintiff must demonstrate that:

• A genuine, loving marital relationship existed between the spouses before the alleged interference
• The love and affection were alienated and destroyed
• The defendant’s willful and malicious conduct was the direct cause of the alienation

Martinez contends that Smith acted with intent and malice, fully aware of Nicole’s marital status. In addition to alienation of affection, the lawsuit includes causes of action for intentional infliction of emotional distress, negligent infliction of emotional distress, punitive damages, and attorney’s fees.

Martinez asserts that Smith’s actions caused him psychological trauma, public embarrassment, and the irreparable deterioration of his marriage.

Public and Media Reaction to the Allegations Involving a Prominent NFL Figure

The lawsuit has generated widespread attention within the sports world and on social media. Former NFL stars Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson (also known as Chad Ochocinco) addressed the situation on their podcast. Sharpe commented that the issue was between Martinez and his wife, not Smith, and that no outsider could destroy a healthy marriage. Johnson agreed, suggesting that while Smith’s actions may be morally questionable, they were not legally the core issue between the couple.

As of this publication, Steve Smith Sr. has not issued any public comment or statement regarding the litigation. Smith has been married to his wife, Angie, since 2000, and the couple has four children. The NFL Network has not responded to inquiries regarding the impact of the lawsuit on Smith’s status with the company.

North Carolina’s “Homewrecker Law”: Rare but Legally Enforceable with a History of High-Dollar Verdicts

North Carolina’s alienation of affection law is one of the few remaining in the country. Although rarely invoked, it has led to significant judgments in recent years. The statute permits plaintiffs to sue third parties who they believe are responsible for their marriage’s loss of affection and companionship due to wrongful interference.

In extreme cases, successful plaintiffs have previously been awarded sums ranging from tens of thousands to over a million dollars. However, legal experts note these cases are difficult to prove, particularly in establishing causation and intent.

Still, North Carolina appellate courts have upheld the law, stating it serves a legitimate public interest in promoting marital fidelity and discouraging interference by outside parties.

Ongoing Civil Proceedings and Uncertain Legal Outcome for Steve Smith Sr.

The civil case is currently pending in Mecklenburg County Superior Court. No initial hearing date has been made public, and Smith has yet to respond to the allegations in court filings formally. It is unclear whether the matter will be resolved through litigation or settlement.

Martinez seeks compensatory and punitive damages exceeding \$100,000 and coverage of all legal fees incurred. The lawsuit marks a serious reputational and legal challenge for Smith, whose post-NFL career has included media appearances, motivational speaking, and charitable work.

This is an ongoing legal matter. Updates will be provided as further details become available through court proceedings or public statements.