Los Angeles — Filmmaker and media mogul Tyler Perry is facing renewed legal scrutiny after a second actor filed a civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault and misconduct, intensifying allegations that first surfaced earlier this year.
The latest lawsuit was filed by Mario Rodriguez, a model and actor who appeared in Perry’s 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween. In the complaint, Rodriguez alleges that Perry subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances and inappropriate physical contact over several years, beginning after Perry encouraged him to audition for the film.
Rodriguez claims the alleged incidents occurred between 2014 and 2019 and included inappropriate touching during meetings that were presented as professional discussions about career opportunities. The lawsuit also alleges that some of the encounters took place at Perry’s Los Angeles residence. Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages, citing claims of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
According to the filing, Rodriguez alleges Perry used his influence in the entertainment industry to cultivate a professional relationship before engaging in the alleged conduct. The complaint further claims that Perry offered him money following some of the encounters, which Rodriguez characterizes as an attempt to maintain silence and control.
The new lawsuit follows a separate civil case filed in June by actor Derek Dixon, who accused Perry of sexual harassment and sexual assault related to their work on Perry’s television series The Oval and Ruthless. Dixon’s lawsuit seeks $260 million in damages and alleges Perry leveraged professional opportunities to create a coercive environment.
Perry has denied the allegations in both cases. His attorney has dismissed the lawsuits as meritless and described them as attempts to extract money from a high-profile figure. No criminal charges have been filed in connection with either case, and both matters remain in civil court.
The emergence of multiple allegations has drawn renewed attention to issues of power dynamics and accountability within the entertainment industry, particularly involving influential producers and aspiring actors. Legal proceedings in both cases are expected to continue through pretrial motions and discovery, a process that could take months or longer.
Perry, one of the most powerful figures in film and television, continues to work on ongoing projects as the lawsuits move forward. The outcomes of the cases could have lasting implications for his career and public image.
