Tyler Perry Sued for $260 Million by Actor Derek Dixon Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

By Aimee Cherry Quartey
Writer

June 18th, 2025

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Tyler Perry Sued for $260 Million by Actor Derek Dixon Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Tyler Perry and Derek Dixon

Famed filmmaker and media mogul Tyler Perry is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed by The Oval actor Derek Dixon, who accuses Perry of workplace sexual harassment, assault, emotional distress, and career retaliation.

Filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on June 13th, the suit details explosive allegations against Perry, one of Hollywood’s most powerful figures and the force behind multiple hit shows on BET and the Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta.

According to the court documents, Dixon—who portrayed “Dale” in The Oval and also appeared in Ruthless—claims that Perry engaged in a pattern of coercive and inappropriate behavior, including unwanted sexual advances, groping, and psychological manipulation.

“Mr. Perry exploited his position of power and influence over Mr. Dixon’s career,” the lawsuit states, alleging that Perry used career opportunities as leverage to gain compliance and retaliated when his advances were rejected.

The actor claims the incidents began as early as January 2020, when Perry allegedly invited him to his Georgia home. He describes multiple encounters in which he says Perry touched him inappropriately and suggested sexual favors in exchange for professional support.

Dixon also alleges that when he refused the advances, Perry responded by threatening his role on The Oval, eventually killing off his character. According to the suit, this resulted in the loss of over $400,000 in earnings and triggered a series of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia.

Dixon is seeking $260 million in damages and has requested a jury trial.

In response, Tyler Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, has strongly denied the allegations, calling them “completely fabricated” and describing the lawsuit as “an attempted shakedown.”

“This is nothing more than a scam designed to extort money from a successful public figure,” Boyd stated. “We will fight this vigorously in court.”

As one of the most influential Black creators in the entertainment industry, Perry’s name is synonymous with trailblazing success, having built a billion-dollar brand through his studio, films, and TV productions. The lawsuit casts a shadow over his legacy and is expected to draw widespread public and industry attention as it unfolds.

Neither Perry nor Dixon has made a personal public statement beyond their legal filings at this time.