Actor Derek Dixon has filed a lawsuit against Tyler Perry for $260 million, accusing him of sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation. The complaint, submitted on June 13, alleges that Perry fostered a “forced and sexually exploitative” environment during filming. Dixon had a role as Dale in Perry’s series.
The legal filing suggests that Perry and his team initially promised Dixon opportunities for career advancement but became abusive when he did not reciprocate Perry’s alleged advances.
Matthew Boyd, an attorney representing Perry, described the lawsuit as a “scam,” asserting that Perry remains unfazed by the accusations, which he believes are baseless.
Dixon claims to have first met Perry at an event celebrating the opening of Tyler Perry Studios in September 2019. By November, he was cast in “Ruthless,” with Perry asserting that the role would significantly change his life.
In December 2019, Dixon was allegedly pressured by Perry to engage with him on a personal level. He claims that in January 2020, he was sexually assaulted by Perry, just a month after being offered a recurring role in “The Oval.” Dixon also noted that his character’s fate was left uncertain for the next season, with Perry reportedly implying that ignoring him could lead to the character’s demise.
After shooting a scene where his character was shot, Dixon alleged he was groped by Perry in his trailer. This, he claims, was not an isolated incident, as a similar experience occurred during a cast trip to the Bahamas in October 2020.
According to the complaint, Dixon sought medical help in December 2020 due to stress and anxiety stemming from the alleged harassment. He was prescribed Zoloft, an antidepressant, and subsequently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, experiencing severe symptoms for several months.
Dixon maintained that after his diagnosis, Perry attempted to lure him back with promises of better roles and pay. He informed Perry in January 2023 of his decision to relocate to California to create distance between them, although he continued acting in “The Oval” until its last season.
The lawsuit includes claims of sexual harassment, sexual assault, emotional distress, and retaliation. Dixon is seeking a jury trial along with the significant damages.
