Tyler Perry Faces New Sexual Assault Allegation

Actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry is under fire once again, as a new sexual assault allegation has emerged following a $77 million lawsuit filed against him and Lionsgate on Christmas Day.

The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, was brought forth by actor Mario Rodriguez, known for his role in “Boo! A Madea Halloween.” Rodriguez claims that Perry made unwanted sexual advances towards him over several years, including an alleged sexual assault at Perry’s home in Los Angeles.

Rodriguez has included Lionsgate in the lawsuit, arguing that the studio was aware of Perry’s alleged misconduct but failed to take action.

Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, vehemently refuted the allegations, stating, “Despite previous failures in other cases against Mr. Perry, the same lawyers keep pressing for money—a tactic that will undoubtedly fail again.”

According to the complaint, Rodriguez asserts that he first met Perry in 2014 when Perry worked at Equinox Gym. Rodriguez claims Perry’s sexual advances began almost immediately, citing multiple incidents, including one where Perry allegedly reached into his pants and made sexual sounds.

The lawsuit reportedly contains several incriminating text messages and other evidence. It also reveals that Perry allegedly paid Rodriguez $5,000 each time after separate encounters involving sexual pressure.

Rodriguez stated, “It became clear to me that Mr. Perry continued to use his power to exploit emerging actors. It was time to share my story, seek justice, and put a stop to his actions.” The lawsuit claims that when Perry learned of Rodriguez’s intent to file, he reached out via text, suggesting that he felt betrayed.

Rodriguez is pursuing charges for sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. He also mentioned that he made this decision to file after actor Derek Dixon had brought forth similar allegations.

This isn’t Perry’s first legal trouble; he was charged in June by another actor, Derek Dixon, who accused him of sexual assault and harassment over several years.

Dixon, who stars as Dale on Perry’s long-running show, claims that during a 2019 event, Perry singled him out, requested his phone number, and implied he might offer him a role. He alleges that Perry attempted inappropriate behavior during a visit to Perry’s Atlanta home while he was intoxicated, and he included sexually suggestive texts from Perry in his lawsuit as evidence.

Dixon is reportedly seeking $260 million in damages against both Perry and Tyler Perry Studios, citing sexual harassment, assault, and battery in the workplace.