Tyler Perry Accused of Sexual Harassment and Retaliation by Former Actor Derek Dixon

LOS ANGELES, CA — June 2025

Tyler Perry, the billionaire media mogul behind Tyler Perry Studios, is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed by actor and playwright Derek Dixon. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court on June 13, includes allegations of sexual harassment, battery, workplace retaliation, and emotional distress.

The Allegations

According to court documents, Dixon alleges that Perry used his influence and position of power in the entertainment industry to make unwanted sexual advances under the guise of professional opportunity. The two first met in 2019 while Dixon was working at a party hosted by Tyler Perry Studios. Shortly after, Dixon says he was invited to audition for Perry’s BET+ show Ruthless, eventually landing a role on The Oval.

In the complaint, Dixon describes a series of inappropriate interactions that allegedly escalated over time. These include sexually explicit text messages, unwanted physical contact, and offers of career advancement in exchange for sexual compliance. Specific incidents detailed in the suit include:

• An alleged encounter at Perry’s Atlanta home in January 2020, where Dixon claims Perry climbed into bed with him and touched his thigh.
• Repeated groping and forced disrobing on set or in private settings between 2020 and 2021.
• An alleged pattern of coercive behavior, where Perry reportedly promised to produce Dixon’s original show concept, Losing It, but ultimately used it as leverage.

The lawsuit also claims that Dixon filed a formal sexual harassment complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 2024, citing a hostile work environment and retaliatory threats, including having his character killed off on The Oval.

Response from Perry

Tyler Perry has not made a public statement but has responded through legal counsel. His attorney, Matthew Boyd, called the allegations a “scam” and a “shakedown,” asserting that the claims are false and that Perry intends to fight them in court. No criminal charges have been filed at this time.

Legal Status

The case remains in the early stages of litigation. Perry has not yet been formally deposed, and a court date has not been scheduled. The civil suit is seeking $260 million in compensatory and punitive damages. As of now, no other individuals or companies have been named in the filing.

Industry Reaction

There has been no formal statement from BET or other production partners associated with The Oval. The entertainment community remains divided, with many emphasizing the importance of due process and others urging transparency and accountability regardless of status or success.

What’s Next?

As the legal process unfolds, both parties are expected to present evidence to support their claims. Let me know what you think in the comments!