Tyler Perry Faces $260 Million Lawsuit Over Actor’s Sexual Harassment Allegations

Tyler Perry Faces $260M Sexual Harassment Lawsuit from Actor Derek Dixon
By Adam S. Levy for DailyMail.com | Updated: 23:47 BST, 17 June 2025

[Image: Tyler Perry at the 2025 BET Awards in Los Angeles. Caption: Tyler Perry denies allegations, calling the lawsuit a "scam."]

Entertainment mogul Tyler Perry has been hit with a $260 million lawsuit by actor Derek Dixon, who alleges sexual harassment, assault, and professional retaliation. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles on June 17, 2025, claims Perry, 55, created a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” while Dixon worked on his shows Ruthless and The Oval.

Allegations and Legal Claims
Dixon, who played the character Dale on both series, stated in court documents that Perry initially promised career opportunities, including producing his pilot and casting him in projects. However, the actor alleges Perry escalated unwanted sexual advances and retaliated when Dixon refused. The two first met in 2019 at Perry’s Atlanta studio.

[Image: Derek Dixon in a headshot. Caption: Actor Derek Dixon claims Perry harassed him on set.]

Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, dismissed the lawsuit as “fabricated,” stating, “This individual got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam. Mr. Perry will not be shaken down.”

Details of the Complaint
The lawsuit alleges Perry subjected Dixon to inappropriate behavior during filming, including unwelcome physical contact and suggestive comments. Dixon claims he faced reduced screen time and professional exclusion after rejecting Perry’s advances.

[Image: Perry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex at a 2024 event. Caption: Perry has collaborated with high-profile figures like Meghan Markle.]

Broader Context
Perry, known for his prolific film and TV projects, has faced minimal public controversy until now. The lawsuit highlights power dynamics in Hollywood, with Dixon’s legal team arguing Perry abused his influence.

Resources for Victims
The article concludes with the National Sexual Assault Hotline information (1-800-656-HOPE) for affected readers.

Daily Mail has reached out to Perry’s representatives for further comment.

[Image: Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. Caption: The alleged incidents occurred at Perry’s Atlanta studio.]

The case remains ongoing, with Perry’s team vowing to contest the claims vigorously.

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