Tyler Perry Faces $77 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit from Actor

Tyler Perry is facing a significant legal challenge with a new sexual assault lawsuit filed by **Mario Rodriguez**, an actor who appeared in Perry’s 2016 film, **Boo! A Madea Halloween**. Rodriguez claims that Perry groped him without consent and made unwanted sexual advances, seeking **$77 million** in damages. The lawsuit was filed on **December 27, 2025**, in California.

Rodriguez alleges that the incidents began in **2015** when he was approached by a trainer at a Los Angeles gym, who informed him that Perry wanted to speak with him. Following this introduction, Rodriguez received a small role in Perry’s film and asserts that Perry invited him to his home multiple times to discuss potential work projects. During these visits, Rodriguez claims that Perry made several inappropriate advances, particularly while under the influence of alcohol.

In his lawsuit, Rodriguez details an encounter from **November 2018** where Perry allegedly grabbed him inappropriately, despite Rodriguez’s requests for him to stop. He describes a struggle to escape Perry’s advances, claiming that the director pressured him by saying, “let it happen,” and offered to take care of him if he complied. Following two unwelcome encounters, Rodriguez states that Perry apologized and gave him **$5,000**, but he felt pressured to remain silent about the incidents.

Perry, 56, has categorically denied these allegations through his legal representation, arguing that the claims are unfounded and labeling them as a mere “money grab.” **Alex Spiro**, Perry’s attorney, emphasized that the lawsuit is just another attempt by Rodriguez’s attorney to extract money, referencing an earlier failed claim against Perry.

The legal troubles do not stop with Rodriguez. In **July 2025**, Perry was also sued by another male actor, **Derek Dixon**, who accused him of escalating sexual harassment and professional retaliation after rejecting Perry’s advances. Dixon’s legal team has claimed that their lawsuit remains active, despite being moved from **California** to **Georgia**.

Rodriguez has expressed his regret over not speaking out sooner, stating that fear had kept him silent. In an Instagram video released on **December 13**, he discussed the overwhelming emotions that followed his experiences with Perry, referring to him as a “very big director” and urging others to be cautious.

As Perry navigates these serious allegations, he continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood. He has built a substantial career with his successful **Madea** franchise and the establishment of **Tyler Perry Studios** in Atlanta, one of the largest film studios in the United States.

The outcomes of both Rodriguez’s and Dixon’s lawsuits could have significant implications, not only for Perry’s personal and professional reputation but also for broader discussions surrounding accountability in the entertainment industry. As the legal proceedings unfold, both plaintiffs and Perry are expected to engage in a protracted legal battle that could shape their futures in the public eye.

The case remains in its early stages, and both parties have yet to respond to additional inquiries regarding the allegations. The legal landscape surrounding these claims highlights the ongoing challenges and discussions regarding power dynamics and consent within the entertainment world.