Tyler Perry Denies $77 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Hollywood filmmaker Tyler Perry is fighting a sexual assault lawsuit. He calls the allegations baseless and financially motivated. His legal team filed a response in Los Angeles County Superior Court on February 27. They rejected claims made by actor Mario Rodriguez, who accused Perry of sexual assault and harassment.

Rodriguez filed the lawsuit last year. He seeks $77 million in damages. He claims Perry made unwanted sexual advances after casting him in a small role in the 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween. Rodriguez says Perry invited him to his home to discuss acting opportunities. He alleges the filmmaker later assaulted him.

Perry’s attorneys strongly deny the claims. They say the allegations lack factual support. They describe the lawsuit as a calculated attempt to gain money and media attention.

The court filing states that Rodriguez maintained a relationship with Perry for years. He repeatedly asked for financial help. Perry’s team claims Rodriguez treated the filmmaker as a personal source of money. When Perry refused, Rodriguez allegedly made up the assault claims.

The filing also notes that Rodriguez visited Perry’s home several times between 2016 and 2019. Perry’s lawyers call these visits part of a “feigned friendship.” They argue the actor wanted to benefit from Perry’s generosity and Hollywood influence.

Rodriguez tells a different story. He claims Perry used his status in Hollywood to lure him with acting promises. He alleges the filmmaker then subjected him to unwanted sexual contact. The complaint includes sexual assault, battery, and emotional distress. Rodriguez seeks $77 million for the harm he says he suffered.

Perry’s team insists the allegations are false. Attorney Matthew Boyd stated that Perry will defend himself fully. Boyd said the lawsuit aims to pressure Perry into a settlement. He added that Perry will not give in to such tactics.

Tyler Perry has also asked the court to move the case to federal court in Georgia. His team argues Georgia is the proper venue. It is where Perry lives and runs most of his business operations.

This is not Perry’s only legal challenge. Actor Derek Dixon, from the television series The Oval, has filed a harassment claim. Perry’s representatives deny these claims as well.

Perry intends to fight all accusations in court. His attorneys say the lawsuits are financially motivated, not legitimate. The court will decide whether the case stays in California or moves to Georgia. Both sides are expected to submit more evidence as the case continues.