Actor and screenwriter Derek Dixon has filed a bombshell lawsuit against media mogul Tyler Perry in Los Angeles County Superior Court, seeking \$260 million in damages.
This high-stakes case centers on serious allegations of sexual harassment and assault that Dixon claims spanned from 2019 to 2021.
According to a 46-page complaint, Dixon alleges that Perry used his powerful influence to pressure and manipulate him first through casting opportunities and then with unwanted advances.
“Mr. Perry sought the one thing his wealth and influence could not purchase – a sexual relationship with a man who would remain silent,” the lawsuit states.
Dixon, who worked on Perry’s shows Ruthless and The Oval, says Perry repeatedly sent explicit messages, offered him key roles, and unleashed retaliation when Dixon refused.
He alleges that threatening to kill off his character in The Oval was used to maintain control.
In addition, Dixon claims Perry physically assaulted him multiple times including texted advances, forced touching in Georgia, and a groping incident during a trip to the Bahamas.
Dixon explains that Perry invited him to his Georgia home in late 2019, served him drinks, and later entered his guest room uninvited to grope him.
“Before he knew what was happening, Dixon felt someone else slip into bed behind him,” the complaint alleges .
He also states Perry later coerced him into sexual situations by leveraging professional favors.
The lawsuit displays a disturbing pattern of what Dixon describes as “quid pro quo” sexual harassment and retaliatory treatment.
He reportedly filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in 2024, though its current status remains unclear.
Tyler Perry’s legal team firmly denies all claims.
Attorney Matthew Boyd described the lawsuit as a “scam” and suggested Dixon aimed for proximity to Perry’s fame.
The defense anticipates that the lawsuit will ultimately be dismissed.
This lawsuit positions Perry alongside other high-profile figures like Harvey Weinstein, R. Kelly, and Bill Cosby, all accused of exploiting their power within the entertainment industry.
The complaint paints a troubling portrait of coercion and misuse of influence in Hollywood.
Moreover, Dixon’s allegations raise serious questions about the vulnerabilities of actors who depend on powerful producers for career advancement.
He claims turning down Perry led to hostile behavior, prompting him to quit The Oval and causing personal turmoil
