Tyler Perry Sued for $260m as Actor Alleges Sexual Assault

Filmmaker Tyler Perry is facing a $260 million lawsuit from actor Derek Dixon, who alleges sexual assault, harassment and a coercive work environment linked to Perry’s productions. Perry denies the claims through his attorney and says he will contest the suit.

What Dixon says

In an on-camera interview on 9 September, Dixon, known for playing Dale on the BET drama The Oval, said his professional relationship with Perry blurred boundaries and left him fearing for his job.

His lawsuit, filed in June 2025, stated that the incidents occurred while he worked on Perry’s projects and claimed that he faced ongoing pressure tied to career advancement.

Dixon said the large damages demand reflects both his alleged financial losses and what he calls a necessary deterrent against abuse by powerful figures. He also accuses Perry of failing to follow through on a promise to produce a pilot Dixon wrote.

Perry’s response

Perry, through attorney Matthew Boyd, categorically rejects the allegations. The defence characterises the lawsuit as an attempted shakedown and stated the claims are unfounded.

Perry has not been charged with a crime; the case is a civil action, and the court has not ruled on the merits.