A Shocking Allegation in Hollywood
A legal storm is brewing in Hollywood as actor and playwright Derek Dixon has filed a $260 million (₦384 billion) lawsuit against American media mogul Tyler Perry. Filed in Los Angeles, the lawsuit accuses Perry of sexual assault, harassment, and professional retaliation during Dixon’s time working on Perry’s productions The Oval and Ruthless.
The claims, which Perry's legal team has described as a “scam,” mark one of the most serious allegations faced by the influential filmmaker, known for building one of the most successful Black-owned entertainment empires in the U.S.
Alleged Abuse of Influence and Power
According to the court documents, Dixon alleges that Tyler Perry used his status in the industry to create a “forced, sexually exploitative dynamic.” The actor claims that Perry promised him a thriving acting career but then subjected him to persistent sexual advances, which escalated into harassment and assault when Dixon did not reciprocate.
The lawsuit details a pattern of behavior, including alleged coercive tactics. In one cited instance, Perry allegedly told Dixon that his character on The Oval, named “Dale,” would only survive into the next season if Perry was kept "happy." Dixon says this veiled threat linked his job security directly to his response to Perry’s alleged sexual innuendos.
Specific Incidents Detailed in the Lawsuit
The actor recounts several specific events, including one disturbing allegation that Perry cornered him in a trailer on set, made sexual remarks, and touched him inappropriately. Dixon says he firmly rejected the advance and left the trailer. The filing claims this was one of multiple unwanted encounters.
Dixon eventually left his role in The Oval and turned down a writing opportunity from Perry, citing ongoing emotional distress and a desire to escape the alleged toxic work environment.
Perry's Legal Team Responds
Tyler Perry, through his attorney Matthew Boyd, has strongly denied all accusations. Boyd described the lawsuit as entirely unfounded and financially motivated:
“This is someone who was close to Tyler Perry and now seems intent on extorting him with false claims. This scam will not shake Mr. Perry, and we are confident that these fabricated allegations will collapse under legal scrutiny.”
No criminal charges have been filed as of now, and Perry has not made any public statement beyond his attorney’s response.
Who is Derek Dixon?
Derek Alexander Dixon is an actor, playwright, and director originally from Raleigh, North Carolina. A graduate of Marymount Manhattan College, Dixon trained at the Terry Schreiber Studio in New York and gained recognition for his role as “Dale” in Tyler Perry’s The Oval and Ruthless. He starred in over 100 episodes before quitting the series.
Beyond acting, Dixon is an accomplished writer and co-winner of the 2016 Essential Theatre Playwriting Award. His stage works include Homewrecker, Green Light, and Pictures of People. He joined Working Title Playwrights in 2015.
Dixon alleges that his relationship with Perry began at a 2019 industry event in Atlanta when he was working for an event production company. He later accepted acting roles in Perry’s television shows, which he claims became marred by escalating harassment.
Broader Implications
The lawsuit adds to the ongoing conversation around power dynamics in the entertainment industry and how vulnerable emerging actors may be to exploitation. It also puts the spotlight back on how studios, particularly those built around strong individual personalities, handle internal complaints and workplace ethics.
As the case develops, it may become a significant test of how Hollywood responds when its most powerful figures are accused—not by A-list celebrities, but by rising talents who allege their careers were compromised.
Tyler Perry has not commented publicly beyond his lawyer’s statement. The case is still in its early stages, and legal proceedings are expected to unfold over the coming months.