Tyler Perry Sued for $260 Million Over Sexual Harassment and Assault Allegations

Tyler Perry faces serious allegations of sexual harassment as actor Derek Dixon has filed a lawsuit against him for $260 million. The lawsuit claims sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation. The Tyler Perry sexual harassment lawsuit, filed on June 13, 2025, in Los Angeles, accuses Perry of creating a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic.” This allegedly occurred while Dixon starred in Perry’s shows, The Oval and Ruthless.

The Allegations Unfold

Dixon alleges that he met Perry in September 2019 during the opening party for Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. Over the following months, he claims Perry frequently texted him with suggestive advances. Perry also promised career opportunities. In November 2019, Dixon received a small role on Ruthless. However, he alleges that Perry’s behavior escalated to sexual harassment and assault. This added to the Tyler Perry sexual harassment controversy.

The complaint details that Perry sexually assaulted Dixon at his home in January 2020. Later, Perry offered him a series regular role on The Oval. Dixon claims that Perry implied his character’s fate depended on his willingness to engage with Perry’s advances. Perry allegedly stated that ignoring him would result in his character’s death in the show.

A Pattern of Misconduct

Dixon recounts several incidents of alleged misconduct. This includes an occasion where Perry allegedly groped him in his trailer and during a cast trip to the Bahamas. He claims that the stress from these experiences led to severe health issues. These included PTSD, for which he sought medical help. He did this while dealing with the Tyler Perry sexual harassment allegations.

In June 2021, Dixon alleges that Perry assaulted him again while discussing a pilot for a show Dixon was developing. Following these incidents, Dixon reported suffering from depression and anxiety, ultimately deciding to leave The Oval in January 2023.

Text Messages Between Tyler Perry and Derek Dixon

In the legal dispute between Tyler Perry and Derek Dixon, text messages have emerged that reveal a troubling dynamic. Perry’s messages include suggestive comments, such as expressing a desire for intimacy, while Dixon’s responses indicate discomfort. For instance, Perry wrote, “I would hope that you would let someone hold you and make love to you,” to which Dixon replied, “Well, it’s not this person. But yes, I want that too.”

These exchanges highlight a power imbalance and may serve as critical evidence in the lawsuit, illustrating the alleged harassment and its psychological impact on Dixon. As the case progresses, these messages could significantly influence public perception and the legal outcomes for both parties.

Perry’s Response

Matthew Boyd, an attorney for Perry, has vehemently denied the allegations, labeling them as a “scam.” He stated, “Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.” Perry’s camp asserts that Dixon’s claims are baseless. They argue they are motivated by financial gain in the wake of the Tyler Perry sexual harassment scandal.

Legal Proceedings

Dixon is suing Perry for quid pro quo sexual harassment, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Among other charges, he is requesting a jury trial and damages amounting to $260 million.

As the situation develops, both parties prepare for what promises to be a contentious legal battle.