Steve Smith Sr. sued under North Carolina 'homewrecker law' for alleged affair

Former NFL star and current analyst Steve Smith Sr. is facing a civil lawsuit in North Carolina, where Antonio Martinez alleges Smith had a months-long affair with his wife, Nicole, a Baltimore Ravens marching band member. The lawsuit, filed under North Carolina's 'alienation of affection' or 'homewrecker law,' seeks over $100,000 in damages and claims Smith's actions disrupted the marital relationship. Martinez alleges the affair began after Smith and Nicole met during the filming of Smith's NFL Network series, with their relationship developing through explicit messages and culminating in a hotel meeting. The case has drawn attention to the rare law, which allows a spouse to sue a third party for undermining a marriage's love and affection, and requires Martinez to prove genuine affection existed in his marriage before the alleged interference. Public reaction has included debate over the validity of such lawsuits, with some commentators arguing that Smith owes no loyalty to Martinez. Smith, a five-time Pro Bowler and respected media personality post-retirement, could see his public reputation impacted as the case proceeds.