Media mogul Tyler Perry is facing a major legal battle as actor Derek Dixon, known for roles on Perry’s BET+ shows Ruthless and The Oval, filed a $260 million civil lawsuit in Los Angeles this month. Filed on June 13, 2025, the complaint accuses Perry of consistent sexual harassment, assault, and career retaliation spanning from 2019 to 2021.

🎭 Allegations in Detail

Dixon claims Perry used his power to seal coveted roles—first on Ruthless and then as a regular on The Oval—to pursue unwanted sexual advances, including text messages, unwanted groping, and an incident involving Perry sneaking into Dixon’s bed at his Atlanta home. He alleges Perry pinned him against a trailer wall and forced himself on him during a Bahama trip in October 2020, warning that Dixon’s character would be “killed off” if he refused. Dixon reported suffering PTSD, depression, insomnia, and other mental health issues from the abuse—providing medical proof and citing how his character was abruptly written off the show after he legally complained.

🛡️ Perry’s Response

Tyler Perry’s attorney dismisses Dixon’s claims as a “fabricated scam”, stating:

“Tyler will not be shaken down and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.” 

💫 Broader Industry Implications

The allegations cast a shadow over Perry’s reputed mentorship-focused empire. They fuel broader conversations about power abuse in Hollywood, echoing past cases involving high-profile figures. As the lawsuit seeks punitive damages, it could prompt thorough scrutiny of sexual misconduct policies within the entertainment world.

🔜 What’s Next?

The case is now pending in Los Angeles Superior Court, likely progressing toward a jury trial. With demands for $260 million in damages and detailed testimonies already revealed, expect media scrutiny, deposition leaks, and intensifying public debate as the case deepens.

Tyler Perry’s legacy as a cultural influencer may hang in the balance as this lawsuit unfolds, spotlighting critical issues of consent, power, and accountability in the entertainment industry.