American media mogul Tyler Perry has been hit with a lawsuit in Los Angeles court by actor Derek Dixon, accusing him of sexual harassment, coercive behavior, and sexually inappropriate conduct.
According to Dixon, Perry promised him career advancement, only to create a “coercive, sexually unsafe environment.”
He alleges that multiple instances of sexual harassment and battery occurred while Perry had direct control over his employment and career opportunities.
A “Hollywood Weinstein” situation?
The lawsuit compares Perry to:
“Harvey Weinstein, Bill Cosby, R. Kelly, and P. Diddy,”
stating that Perry used his wealth and power to get whatever he wanted.
Dixon says they met in 2019 at Perry’s studio opening party, where Perry asked him about his job and whether he was an actor. Later, Perry allegedly built a personal connection and used it to manipulate and sexually exploit Dixon.
🔹 A vulnerable new actor?
Perry gave Dixon a role, saying it was “a small part that could grow into something bigger.”
Afterward, Dixon was invited to Perry’s home, and during a relaxed moment, he claims Perry touched him inappropriately while he was in bed.
Dixon says Perry got into bed behind him and touched him sexually without consent.
Perry’s response
Tyler Perry has denied all allegations, calling it a “shakedown.”
His attorney, Matthew Boyd, stated:
“This is a calculated attempt to exploit Tyler Perry. He will not be shaken down, and we are confident these false claims will fail.”
260 million lawsuit
Dixon is seeking $260 million in damages for emotional and professional harm.
The lawsuit includes multiple incidents, along with texts and sexually suggestive messages that Perry allegedly sent.
