Hollywood filmmaker and studio mogul Tyler Perry confronts renewed legal turmoil as actor Mario Rodriguez files a sexual assault lawsuit against him, marking the second such allegation within months. The complaint, submitted Thursday in California courts, seeks substantial damages exceeding $77 million while implicating both Perry and distributor Lionsgate for allegedly ignoring systematic misconduct.
Rodriguez’s legal narrative details a pattern of unwanted sexual advances spanning from 2014 through 2019. According to court documents, their initial contact originated through an Equinox gym trainer who facilitated communication under the guise of discussing acting opportunities. Perry subsequently encouraged Rodriguez to audition for his 2016 feature ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween,’ reportedly stating, ‘I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.’
Following Rodriguez’s casting, the lawsuit describes multiple incidents of alleged sexual battery at Perry’s Los Angeles residence. These include inappropriate touching during movie screenings, attempted unbuckling of Rodriguez’s pants, and forced physical contact. The filing notes Perry provided $5,000 payments following several encounters, which Rodriguez interpreted as attempts to normalize the misconduct.
The plaintiff claims his decision to pursue legal action solidified after learning of similar allegations by actor Derek Dixon, who filed a June lawsuit alleging groping incidents during production of Perry’s television series ‘The Oval’ and ‘Ruthless.’ That case has reportedly transitioned from Los Angeles Superior Court to federal jurisdiction in Georgia, where Perry’s studio operations are headquartered.
Rodriguez’s litigation advances claims spanning sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Lionsgate faces secondary liability allegations for purportedly disregarding warning signs about Perry’s behavior. Perry’s legal representative has issued categorical denials, characterizing the allegations as baseless and vowing vigorous defense.
The emerging pattern of accusations spotlights power dynamics within entertainment industries, where influential figures allegedly exploit professional aspirations to facilitate inappropriate conduct. This case joins growing industry-wide scrutiny over accountability mechanisms and protection for vulnerable performers.