Tyler Perry faces a $260 million lawsuit from actor Derek Dixon

Tyler Perry, the award-winning filmmaker and media mogul, faces a $260 million lawsuit from actor Derek Dixon, who accuses him of sexual assault, harassment, and professional retaliation during their time working together on two of Perry’s shows: The Oval and Ruthless.

Dixon filed the suit in Los Angeles, claiming Perry used his industry power to pressure him into an exploitative relationship. He says Perry initially promised to help his career, but began making unwanted sexual advances after casting him.

Dixon met Perry in 2019 at a Tyler Perry Studios event in Atlanta. They stayed in touch for months, discussing acting roles. According to Dixon, Perry offered him roles in Ruthless and The Oval but later used those roles to manipulate him.

He claims Perry told him his character “Dale” would only survive future seasons if he kept the filmmaker “happy.” The lawsuit accuses Perry of making several inappropriate comments and sexual requests. Dixon says he rejected those advances.

One alleged incident took place in a trailer on set. Dixon says Perry cornered him, asked personal questions about his sexuality, then pinned him against a wall and groped him. Dixon says he left the trailer immediately.

To avoid further harassment, Dixon chose to leave his role on The Oval. He also turned down a writing job offered by Perry.

Perry has not commented publicly. However, his attorney Matthew Boyd denied all allegations. Boyd called the lawsuit a “scam” and said Dixon is trying to exploit Perry’s fame.

“This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam, Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims will fail.”

As of now, no criminal charges have been filed. The case remains active in court.