Tyler Perry, a prominent filmmaker, is facing a sexual assault lawsuit from actor Mario Rodriguez, known for his role in “Boo! A Madea Halloween.” This marks the second allegation against Perry in recent months concerning inappropriate conduct in the entertainment industry.
Rodriguez filed the lawsuit in California, claiming that Perry engaged in multiple unwanted sexual advances over the years. He accuses Perry of sexual battery and assault at Perry’s home in Los Angeles, seeking damages amounting to $77 million. Rodriguez also named Lionsgate, the studio that released the 2016 film, in the lawsuit for allegedly ignoring Perry’s behavior.
Lionsgate has not yet commented on the lawsuit. Perry’s legal team has firmly denied the allegations put forth by Rodriguez, maintaining that the claims are unfounded.
The complaint outlines that Rodriguez was approached by a trainer at an Equinox gym in 2014, who relayed Perry’s interest in discussing an acting opportunity. According to the lawsuit, Perry encouraged Rodriguez to audition for “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” promising that having him on his side would be advantageous.
After securing a role, Rodriguez reports being invited to Perry’s residence, where he alleges Perry engaged in inappropriate touching while they watched a film together. The lawsuit documents further incidents alleged to have occurred in 2016, 2018, and 2019—events characterized by Perry’s attempts to engage in sexual acts with Rodriguez. Notably, Rodriguez claims that Perry provided him with $5,000 on multiple occasions following these encounters.
Rodriguez states that he resisted Perry’s advances and decided to come forward after learning about similar accusations from another actor, Derek Dixon. Dixon has filed a lawsuit against Perry, alleging groping incidents that occurred during his work on Perry’s television series “The Oval” and “Ruthless.” That case, which began in Los Angeles County, has reportedly been transferred to federal court in Georgia, where Perry’s studio operates.
The allegations against Perry now encompass claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, further amplifying scrutiny on his conduct within the industry.