Tyler Perry sued by actor Derek Dixon for $260 million over sexual harassment
American actor Tyler Perry sued for $260m by Derek Dixon over alleged sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation tied to TV show roles.
American actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry has been slammed with a $260 million lawsuit by actor Derek Dixon, who accuses him of sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation.
According to Dixon, he met Perry in September 2019 while working at the opening of Tyler Perry Studios.
American actor and filmmaker, Tyler Perry.
He later secured roles in Perryâs shows âRuthlessâ and âThe Ovalâ, where he played the character Dale.
Dixon alleged that Perry initially promised him career growth and creative opportunities, including producing his pilot and offering him acting roles.
However, he claims the relationship took a dark turn when he refused Perryâs alleged advances.
In the lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on June 13, Dixon alleged that Perry sexually assaulted him at his home in January 2020.
A month later, Dixon said he was offered a series regular role on âThe Ovalâ.
He further claimed that Perry used his characterâs storyline to manipulate him, warning that if he did not engage with the alleged sexual overtures, his role would be cut off. Dixonâs character was later shot four times in the series.
In response to the suit, Perryâs attorney dismissed the claims, calling them fabricated and labeling the case as a âscam.â