Tyler Perry Faces $260 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit Amid Allegations of Harassment and Retaliation.

In a development that has stunned both Hollywood and the broader entertainment industry, Tyler Perry one of the most influential figures in global media — is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed in Los Angeles.

The plaintiff, actor Derek Dixon, alleges a pattern of sexual assault, harassment, and professional retaliation, all tied to his involvement in Perry’s BET series The Oval and Ruthless. The lawsuit, filed on June 13, 2025, includes claims that raise serious questions about power, consent, and accountability within production spaces led by high-profile creatives.

According to the lawsuit, Dixon states that his professional relationship with Perry began with promise — but turned exploitative.

He claims he was invited to Perry’s home in Georgia in January 2020, where an incident of unwanted touching and groping allegedly occurred. A second incident is said to have taken place in June 2021, again involving non-consensual advances.

The complaint outlines a pattern of quid pro quo harassment — where sexual compliance was allegedly tied to promised career opportunities, including a pilot and more prominent roles. When Dixon claims to have rejected these advances, he alleges that the retaliation was swift and deliberate: his character on The Oval was reportedly written off in a brutal fashion, his screen time reduced, and his salary withheld.

The actor ultimately resigned, claiming the work environment had become hostile and unsafe.

Dixon’s filing includes disturbing details about the psychological toll of the alleged experiences. He reports suffering from PTSD, sleep disorders, stomach ulcers, and ongoing anxiety — all of which, according to the lawsuit, required medication and therapy.

The suit also states that Dixon filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 2024 before moving forward with this civil suit.

Perry’s Response: 

Perry’s legal team has categorically denied the allegations. In a statement to media outlets, his attorney described the claims as "fabricated," suggesting the suit is a calculated attempt to extort money from the filmmaker.

“This is a blatant attempt to tarnish Mr. Perry’s name,” the statement reads. “We will vigorously defend against these false accusations.”

As of now, Perry has not issued a personal response.

This lawsuit signals a deeper shift in how allegations against powerful industry figures are received and processed. Perry, known for building one of the most expansive Black-owned studios in the world, has also been a vocal supporter of women’s rights, empowerment, and faith-driven storytelling. The irony of these accusations has not gone unnoticed.

The case also underscores the difficulties many actors — particularly queer, male, or less powerful ones — face in reporting abuse. The fear of career loss, industry blacklisting, and public shaming are all part of the silence that often follows such incidents.

What Happens Next?

Dixon has requested a jury trial, and if the court grants it, this case could become one of the most watched legal battles in the entertainment sector since the post-#MeToo era began.

Blanck will continue to report on developments in this case with the utmost sensitivity and commitment to truth.