Tyler Perry Faces $260 Million Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct

Renowned filmmaker and media mogul Tyler Perry is at the center of a \$260 million lawsuit filed by actor Derek Dixon, who formerly appeared on Perry’s hit TV series The Oval. The civil suit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, accuses Perry of multiple instances of sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation over a period of several years.

According to the legal documents, Dixon claims the misconduct began in 2019, around the time he first auditioned for the show. He alleges that Perry began sending inappropriate text messages and eventually escalated to unwanted physical contact. The actor recounts several alleged incidents, including groping and forced undressing, which he says took place on set, in private residences, and even during an overseas trip.

Dixon also alleges that Perry used his influence on set to exert control, threatening to remove him from the show if he resisted the advances. Feeling pressured and unsafe, Dixon says he eventually left the series—despite having substantial earnings remaining on his contract.

“This lawsuit is about power, manipulation, and a clear abuse of authority,” a statement from Dixon’s legal team reads. “Our client has endured emotional and professional harm, and he is seeking justice not only for himself but to prevent future abuses.”

The lawsuit outlines claims of sexual assault, gender-based violence, workplace harassment, emotional distress, and retaliatory threats. It also highlights Dixon’s previous efforts to seek recourse, including a complaint filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), which he claims was dismissed without a thorough investigation.

Tyler Perry, through his legal representative Matthew Boyd, has categorically denied the allegations, calling them “completely false and malicious.” Boyd described the lawsuit as a “calculated attempt to extort money and damage Mr. Perry’s reputation.”

As of now, no criminal charges have been filed. Perry has not made a personal public statement regarding the matter.

The case is expected to proceed through the civil court system, with Dixon demanding a jury trial and seeking a combined total of \$260 million in compensatory and punitive damages.