Filmmaker Tyler Perry is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed by actor Derek Dixon, who has accused Perry of inappropriate harassment, assault, and fostering a hostile work environment. The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court and names both Perry and Tyler Perry Studios as defendants.
According to the court documents, Dixon, who played Dale in the BET+ series Ruthless and The Oval, claims that Perry used his position of power to pressure him into non-consensual inappropriate activity. Dixon alleges that Perry promised him greater roles and career advancement in exchange for inappropriate favors.
The complaint states that the two met in September 2019 at the grand opening of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. Dixon was initially cast in a small role on Ruthless but was later offered a recurring role on The Oval. He alleges that in January 2020, Perry invited him to stay at his home in Georgia, where the first incident of assault reportedly occurred.
Dixon accuses Perry of entering his guest room during the night, getting into bed with him, and rubbing against him. He also claims that Perry later forcibly removed his clothing, groped him, and attempted further inappropriate contact despite his protests.
The lawsuit outlines further alleged incidents, including an encounter in June 2021 where Perry is said to have pulled down Dixon’s underwear and groped him. Dixon also claims he was assaulted in his trailer and on a cast trip to the Bahamas. He says the ongoing abuse led to PTSD, anxiety, depression, and financial losses of nearly $400,000.
Perry has denied the allegations. His attorney, Matthew Boyd, called the lawsuit a “shakedown” and stated that the claims are “completely fabricated.” Boyd added that they are confident the case will not hold up in court.
Dixon is demanding a jury trial and is seeking $260 million in compensatory and punitive damages. He filed a discrimination complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in June 2024 and eventually left the show during its final season.
