Hollywood mogul Tyler Perry is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment, workplace gender-based violence, and sexual assault, according to a new lawsuit filed by actor Derek Dixon.
Dixon, who appeared in two of Perry’s television series—Ruthless and The Oval—claims that the media powerhouse used his influence to foster what he describes as a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic.”
In the lawsuit, Dixon alleges that Perry promised him career advancement in exchange for professional compliance, but instead subjected him to “escalating sexual harassment, assault, and battery.” He also claims that Perry maintained direct control over his employment, compensation, and creative opportunities, creating an environment where abuse could occur unchecked.
The lawsuit paints a troubling picture of power imbalance in the workplace, with Dixon asserting that he was manipulated and taken advantage of while seeking professional growth.
Perry has firmly denied the accusations. His attorney, Matthew Boyd, dismissed the claims as baseless and part of an attempted extortion.
“This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam,” Boyd said in a statement.
“Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed, and Perry has not issued a personal statement regarding the lawsuit. The case is expected to draw significant attention given Perry’s prominent role in the entertainment industry and his reputation as a self-made media figure.
