Actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court by actor Derek Dixon, who accuses Perry of sexual harassment, assault, and career retaliation.
In the lawsuit filed earlier this week, Dixon claims the misconduct began in 2019 after the two met during a studio event. According to court documents, Dixon later joined the cast of Perry’s television productions, including The Oval and Ruthless. He alleges Perry used his position of influence to make unwanted sexual advances, and that those escalated into physical confrontations when Dixon rejected them.
Dixon’s claims include allegations of groping, attempted strangulation, and sexual assault. He also accuses Perry of using threats — such as altering or ending his character’s storyline — to manipulate his cooperation. One incident, according to the lawsuit, took place at Perry’s Atlanta-area residence in 2020, followed by others during a cast trip and subsequent filming seasons.
The complaint alleges that after Dixon refused the advances, his role on The Oval was written off, leading to the character’s on-screen death. Dixon left the series in 2023. He states the ordeal caused him significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression and PTSD, along with financial losses from lost wages and production opportunities.
In response, Perry’s legal team called the accusations baseless. Attorney Matthew Boyd, representing Perry, said the suit is “a scam, plain and simple,” and described the claims as fabricated. Perry intends to contest the lawsuit vigorously.
Dixon is requesting a jury trial and seeking $260 million in damages for emotional, reputational, and financial harm.
As of Wednesday, no court date has been set. Perry has not commented publicly on the allegations.
