Actor Mario Rodriguez has filed a lawsuit against Tyler Perry and Lionsgate, accusing the filmmaker of repeated sexual advances and assault over several years.
The Lawsuit
Rodriguez filed the complaint Thursday in California, alleging that Perry subjected him to unwanted sexual advances for a span of years. The lawsuit claims both sexual battery and assault occurred at Perry’s Los Angeles home. Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages.
Allegations of Repeated Advances
According to the complaint, the first contact happened in 2014 when a trainer at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles approached Rodriguez. The trainer said Perry wanted Rodriguez’s phone number to discuss a potential acting role. Perry later encouraged Rodriguez to audition for the 2016 film “Boo! A Madea Halloween.”
The Quoted Statement
Perry allegedly told Rodriguez, “I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner,” according to the lawsuit. This statement is presented as a key point in the complaint. Rodriguez claims the comment was part of a pattern of inappropriate behavior.
Invitation to Perry’s Home
After Rodriguez was cast, he was invited to Perry’s home. While they were watching a movie, the lawsuit states that Perry allegedly touched Rodriguez inappropriately. The incident is described as an act of sexual battery.
Subsequent Incidents
The complaint details further alleged encounters in 2016, 2018, and 2019. In one 2016 incident, Perry allegedly tried to unbuckle Rodriguez’s pants. In another, Perry placed Rodriguez’s hand on his genitals, the lawsuit claims.
Monetary Compensation
Rodriguez says Perry gave him $5,000 on multiple occasions following these encounters. The payments are cited as evidence of a relationship that the plaintiff claims was coercive. The lawsuit lists these amounts as part of the damages sought.
Response from Perry’s Legal Team
In a statement, Perry’s lawyer denied all allegations. The lawyer’s response is included in the public record of the lawsuit. No further details are provided by the legal team.
Lionsgate’s Involvement
Rodriguez also sued Lionsgate, the distributor of “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” accusing the studio of turning a blind eye to Perry’s alleged misconduct. Lionsgate did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The lawsuit names the studio as a co-defendant.
Derek Dixon Context
Rodriguez said he resisted the advances and ultimately decided to file suit after learning of similar allegations made by another actor, Derek Dixon. Dixon sued Perry in June, alleging the filmmaker groped him while working on Perry’s television series “The Oval” and “Ruthless.”
Dixon’s Lawsuit Details
Dixon’s lawsuit was originally filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. It has reportedly since been moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry’s studio is based. The move is noted in the public filings.
Legal Claims
Rodriguez’s lawsuit includes claims of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The complaint lists these as the primary legal grounds for the case. The damages sought are tied to these claims.
Financial Demands
The $77 million figure includes compensation for the alleged misconduct and punitive damages. Rodriguez’s claim is presented as a minimum amount. No higher figure is stated in the filing.
Perry’s Denial of Allegations
Tyler Perry has denied actor Derek Dixon’s claims that he engaged in alleged misconduct and retaliation. Perry’s statements are part of the public record. The denial is cited in the context of the broader litigation.
Current Status
The lawsuit is pending in California. No court dates have been announced in the public filings. Both parties have not yet made further public statements.
Key Takeaways
- Mario Rodriguez sued Tyler Perry and Lionsgate for alleged sexual assault and battery, seeking $77 million.
- The complaint details repeated advances, specific incidents, and payments of $5,000.
- Perry’s lawyer denied the allegations, and Lionsgate has not yet responded.
The case highlights ongoing accusations against Tyler Perry, adding to a growing list of legal challenges involving alleged misconduct. The outcome of the lawsuit remains to be seen as the parties navigate the legal process.
