Tyler Perry Faces $77 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit from Former Film Actor

Filmmaker and media executive Tyler Perry has been named in a new civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault and misconduct by an actor who appeared in one of his films. The suit was filed in California by Mario Rodriguez, an actor involved in the 2016 movie "Boo! A Madea Halloween", and seeks damages of at least $77 million.

According to legal documents, Rodriguez alleges that Perry engaged in a pattern of unwanted sexual advances that extended over several years. The incidents reportedly began after Rodriguez was initially contacted in 2014 by an intermediary at a Los Angeles gym, who conveyed Perry's interest in discussing a potential acting opportunity. The complaint states that Perry later encouraged Rodriguez to audition for a role in the film and emphasized the benefits of having his support within the entertainment industry.

Rodriguez claims that after being cast, he was invited to Perry's residence in Los Angeles. During this visit and several subsequent encounters between 2016 and 2019, Perry is accused of inappropriate physical contact, including alleged incidents of sexual battery and assault. Specific allegations include unwanted touching during a movie screening, attempts to remove Rodriguez's clothing, and instances where Perry allegedly placed Rodriguez's hand on his person. The lawsuit further claims that Perry provided Rodriguez with cash payments of $5,000 following some of these encounters.

In addition to Perry, Lionsgate--the distribution company for "Boo! A Madea Halloween"--is also named as a defendant. The suit asserts that Lionsgate failed to take appropriate action to address or prevent the alleged misconduct, despite its association with the film's production and distribution. The studio has not issued a public response regarding the lawsuit as of this time.

Perry's legal representatives have categorically denied the allegations outlined in the complaint. The case comes in the wake of a similar suit filed by another actor, Derek Dixon, who previously worked with Perry on television projects. Dixon's case, which involves comparable accusations of inappropriate behavior, has been transferred to a federal court in Georgia, the location of Perry's main production studios.

Rodriguez states that his decision to pursue legal action was influenced by learning about parallel allegations from other individuals. The lawsuit accuses Perry of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The actor also seeks damages for emotional and psychological impacts allegedly resulting from the incidents.

The legal proceedings have drawn attention due to Perry's high profile in the entertainment industry, where he is recognized for his extensive work as a director, producer, and studio owner. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for all parties involved as the matter progresses through the legal system.