Content warning: This article discusses childhood sexual abuse
A civil case against Steven Tyler is set to proceed to trial later this year, with the Aerosmith singer facing allegations of child sexual assault dating back to the 1970s.
The lawsuit, originally filed in 2022, was brought by Julia Misley, who alleges Tyler sexually assaulted, groomed and impregnated her when she was 16 and he was in his mid-20s. The suit claims Tyler used his status as a high-profile musician to exploit her during a relationship that spanned several years.
The case has drawn particular attention to passages in Tyler’s 2011 memoir Does the Noise in My Head Bother You?, in which he referred to Misley as a “teen bride” and described taking her on tour after being granted legal guardianship by her parents.
In one excerpt, Tyler wrote: “She was 16… with my bad self being twenty-six… I just fell madly in love with her… I was so in love I almost took a teen bride… [her parents] signed paper over for me to have custody… I took her on tour with me.”
Tyler has nonetheless denied all allegations.
In a recent development, a judge dismissed the majority of claims in the case due to statute of limitations issues tied to Massachusetts, where much of the alleged relationship took place. However, the lawsuit will proceed in California under the state’s Child Victims Act, which allows certain historical abuse claims to be heard regardless of time limits. As a result, one specific incident alleged to have occurred in California remains before the court.
Tyler’s lawyer, David Long-Daniels, told The Times: “This is a massive win for Steven Tyler. Today, the Court has dismissed with prejudice 99.9% of the claims against Mr. Tyler in this case. The court has decided that only one night, 50-plus years ago, out of a three-year relationship is allowed to remain.”
Misley’s legal representative, Jeff Anderson, offered a contrasting view, stating: “This reflects years of resilience and courage by Ms. Misley, driven by an unwavering pursuit of truth and justice. It is time for justice and for Tyler to be held accountable by a jury.”
The case is currently scheduled to go to trial in August.
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the Australian National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service – can be reached on 1800 737 732.
Further Reading
Aerosmith Announces Retirement From Touring
Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler Denies Sexual Abuse Allegations
Steven Tyler of Aerosmith Accused of Sexual Assault and Battery of a Minor in the 1970s
