Actor Derek Dixon has filed a $260 million lawsuit against Tyler Perry, alleging sexual harassment, assault, and workplace misconduct tied to his work on “The Oval” and “Ruthless.”
📌 Allegations Against Tyler Perry Spark Industry Shockwaves
A bombshell lawsuit has been filed against media mogul Tyler Perry by actor Derek Dixon, known for his roles on Perry’s series “The Oval” and “Ruthless.”
In a detailed complaint filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, Dixon accuses Perry of sexual harassment, assault, and abuse of power, claiming the entertainment titan used his influence to exploit vulnerable actors within his productions.
According to the 30-page filing, Dixon is seeking at least $260 million in damages, alleging repeated and escalating incidents of sexual misconduct dating back to 2021.
The accusations span unwanted sexual advances, groping, and one instance where Dixon says Perry climbed into his bed uninvited after a late-night visit.
🎭 How Derek Dixon Says It All Began
Dixon says he was recruited by Perry in 2019 to act on “Ruthless” after meeting him while working a private event in Atlanta.
The lawsuit describes early interactions as friendly but claims they soon turned inappropriate.
Court documents include alleged text messages from Perry, including statements like:
- “What’s it going to take for you to have guiltless sex?”
- “I love how I feel right now but I don’t like being horny.”
Dixon alleges that Perry’s messages and behavior quickly crossed boundaries, creating a workplace environment charged with fear and intimidation.
🛏️ Disturbing Details From The Lawsuit
The most severe allegations come from incidents described in vivid detail:
- January 2020: After a night at Perry’s home, Dixon stayed in a guest room. He claims Perry slipped into his bed and began touching him in a sexual manner without consent.
- On-Set Incident: After filming an episode of “The Oval“, Perry allegedly pinned Dixon against a wall in his trailer and groped him.
- June 2021 Meeting: During a conversation about a show Dixon pitched, Perry allegedly groped Dixon again—this time in a more aggressive and prolonged manner.
Dixon says he remained silent out of fear his character would be written off.
According to the lawsuit, following the final alleged incident, Perry’s team offered Dixon a $6,000 per episode raise and interest in producing his pilot—a deal that never materialized due to existing studio obligations.
🧑🏾⚖️ Legal Response From Tyler Perry’s Team
Tyler Perry has strongly denied the allegations.
His attorney, Matthew Boyd, called Dixon “an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam.”
Boyd added that Perry “will not be shaken down” and expressed confidence that “these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”
🚨 What Happens Next?
The lawsuit adds another layer of controversy to the conversation around power dynamics in Hollywood, especially as it relates to male victims of sexual harassment.
Dixon claims he didn’t know how to report the incidents because he was unaware of a human resources department at Tyler Perry Studios.
Since filing the lawsuit, Dixon has also reported his allegations to regulatory agencies.
He says he refused to return to “The Oval” for another season, prompting a warning from Perry that he’d be in breach of contract if he disclosed his reasons for leaving.
My first question is: Has anyone checked on Christian Keyes?
You may recall that in December 2023, the actor took to social media claiming he had been sexually harassed for years by a powerful man in Hollywood.
However, after setting the streets of social media ablaze with speculation – he suddenly went radio silent with his allegations.
Related: Christian Keyes Reveals He Was Sexually Harassed For Years By A Powerful Man In Hollywood
Frens, what are your thoughts on the allegations against Tyler Perry?
Let me know in the comments below or join the convo on our socials.
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