Hollywood filmmaker and actor Tyler Perry is facing a sexual assault lawsuit filed by Mario Rodriguez, an actor who appeared in the 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween. The case, filed in Los Angeles State Court, marks the second lawsuit of its kind against Perry this year.
According to the complaint, Rodriguez alleges that Perry subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances and inappropriate physical contact over several years. The incidents reportedly occurred at Perry’s residence, where Rodriguez claims Perry made unwelcome touches while discussing acting opportunities. Rodriguez also alleges that Perry gave him money following some of these encounters, and that Lionsgate, the film’s distributor, failed to address the alleged misconduct.
Rodriguez is seeking $77 million in damages, citing claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit asserts that Perry’s influence and status in Hollywood created a coercive environment that impacted Rodriguez’s professional opportunities.
This filing follows an earlier lawsuit by Derek Dixon, an actor from Perry’s BET drama The Oval, who accused Perry of sexual harassment and assault, seeking $260 million in damages. Both cases are being handled by the same legal team, emphasizing a pattern of allegations against Perry, who has denied all claims and described them as attempts at financial gain.
The lawsuit has drawn significant attention from both legal experts and the entertainment industry, raising discussions about power dynamics in Hollywood and the responsibility of high-profile figures toward aspiring actors. Perry and representatives for Lionsgate have not yet released detailed public statements regarding the latest case.
Source: Thepressradio.com
