Hollywood filmmaker and studio mogul Tyler Perry is facing a major legal challenge after being sued for sexual assault by an actor who appeared in his 2016 film, 'Boo! A Madea Halloween'. This marks the second lawsuit of its kind filed against Perry in recent months.
Actor Alleges Years of Unwanted Advances
Mario Rodriguez filed the lawsuit in California on Thursday, 25 December 2025. He alleges that Perry subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances over a period of several years. The claims include incidents of sexual battery and assault, which Rodriguez says took place at Perry's Los Angeles home.
The actor is seeking substantial financial compensation, with the lawsuit demanding at least $77 million in damages. Rodriguez has also taken legal action against Lionsgate, the studio that distributed the film. He accuses Lionsgate of turning a blind eye to Perry's alleged misconduct.
Detailed Timeline of Alleged Incidents
According to the legal complaint, the connection began in 2014. Rodriguez was approached at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles by a trainer who stated that Perry wanted his phone number to discuss a potential acting role. Perry later encouraged Rodriguez to audition for 'Boo! A Madea Halloween', reportedly telling him, "I'm not a bad person to know and have in your corner."
After Rodriguez was cast in the film, he was invited to Perry's home. It was there, while watching a movie, that Perry first allegedly touched him inappropriately. The lawsuit details further alleged incidents in 2016, 2018, and 2019. These include an encounter where Perry allegedly tried to unbuckle Rodriguez's trousers and another where he is accused of placing Rodriguez's hand on his genitals.
The complaint states that Perry gave Rodriguez $5,000 on multiple occasions following these encounters. Rodriguez claims he resisted the advances and was ultimately prompted to file suit after learning of similar allegations made by another actor, Derek Dixon.
Second Lawsuit and Studio Response
Dixon sued Perry in June, alleging the filmmaker groped him while he worked on Perry's television series 'The Oval' and 'Ruthless'. That lawsuit was originally filed in Los Angeles Superior Court but has reportedly been moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry's studio is based.
Rodriguez's lawsuit includes formal claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. In response to the new allegations, a lawyer for Tyler Perry has issued a statement denying the claims. Lionsgate did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.
This developing scandal places a significant spotlight on the abuse of power within the entertainment industry and raises serious questions about accountability for high-profile figures in Hollywood.
