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Tyler Perry Faces Sexual Harassment Allegations in Lawsuit
Tyler Perry, the media mogul and creator of the Madea film series, is confronting allegations of sexual harassment, gender violence in the workplace, and sexual assault outlined in a recent lawsuit. Derek Dixon, an actor who appeared on Perry’s shows “Ruthless” and “The Oval,” claims Perry exploited his position and influence to foster a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic.” The lawsuit seeks damages for alleged misconduct.
Details of the Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Tyler Perry
Filed in Los Angeles, the lawsuit alleges that Perry promised Dixon career opportunities but instead subjected him to “escalating sexual harassment, assault, and battery.” Dixon contends that this abuse occurred while Perry directly controlled his employment, compensation, and creative opportunities.
- Dixon claims he faced retaliation for not responding positively to Perry’s advances.
- The alleged incidents took place while Dixon was working on Perry’s television shows.
Perry’s Response to Allegations of Sexual Assault and Abuse
Perry, a dominant figure in Hollywood known for his film and TV studios in Atlanta and his partnership with the Oprah Winfrey Network, has refuted the accusations. His legal counsel has characterized the lawsuit as an attempt at extortion.
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Matthew Boyd, Perry’s attorney, issued a statement, describing the lawsuit as a “shakedown.” He stated, “This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam. But Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”
Lawsuit Claims Pattern of Exploitation
The lawsuit asserts that Perry has a history of exploiting vulnerable male actors and employees. The filing draws parallels to other high-profile figures accused of similar misconduct, suggesting that Perry’s success may have led him to believe he is above accountability. According to the suit:
“Tyler Perry has been using his power and influence to molest, abuse, and sexually assault impressionable and vulnerable employees and actors who look to him for guidance and mentorship.”
Sequence of Events Leading to Alleged Assault
The lawsuit details the initial meeting between Perry and Dixon in 2019 at the opening party for Perry’s studio. Dixon, then working for an events company, caught Perry’s attention, according to the court documents. Perry allegedly inquired about Dixon’s employment status and acting aspirations.
Alleged Promises and Invitations
- Perry began texting Dixon, discussing his goals and career ambitions.
- He offered Dixon a role on one of his television shows, suggesting it could expand significantly.
- This initial offer allegedly set the stage for a series of quid pro quo propositions.
Details of the Alleged Initial Sexual Assault
Following his first acting job, Dixon was invited to Perry’s residence. After an evening of drinks and conversation, Perry allegedly persuaded him to stay the night. The lawsuit describes the evening:
“Dixon agreed and was escorted to a separate guest room, not knowing that this was a ruse to allow Perry to assault Dixon. Dixon was tired and did not have pajamas and so he got into bed only wearing underwear. Before he knew what was happening, Dixon felt someone else slip into bed behind him and start rubbing Dixon’s body around his inner thigh in a highly sexual and suggestive manner.”
Further Allegations of Sexual Battery
The lawsuit further details multiple instances of sexual harassment and assault over several years. The accusations include an incident in which Perry purportedly forcibly removed Dixon’s clothing, groped him, and attempted to assault him.
$260 Million Sexual Harassment Claim
The suit includes communications between Perry and Dixon, featuring flirtatious and sexually suggestive messages from Perry that Dixon appeared to reject. Dixon is seeking at least $260 million in damages in this high-profile sexual harassment case.