Allegations of Coercion, Assault, and Abuse of Power
Tyler Perry, the media mogul best known for his Madea franchise and the BET political drama The Oval, is facing a $260 million lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by actor Derek Dixon. Dixon, who played recurring character Dale on The Oval, accuses Perry of a sustained pattern of sexual harassment, gender-based workplace violence, sexual assault, and physical battery from 2019 until his departure in 2023.
The complaint alleges that Perry used his considerable influence and authority at his Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios to create a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic.” Dixon claims he was lured with career promises and faced retaliation—including threats that his character would be written off—when he resisted Perry’s advances.
Who Is Derek Dixon?
Derek Dixon, initially an events company employee, rose to prominence via Perry’s productions. First cast in the series Ruthless, he secured a recurring role on The Oval, appearing in more than 100 episodes. Dixon trained at Marymount Manhattan College and has a background in theater and playwriting, including award-winning work on Homewrecker and Red Snow.
Dixon alleges Perry regularly used text messages and off-set incidents—such as unwanted groping, intimate advances at Perry’s home, and even choking—to pressure him into compliance. One message allegedly from Perry said: “No straight man would be going on walks with you … unless they wanted to f— you.”
Timeline of Abuse Allegations
2019: Dixon meets Perry at a Tyler Perry Studios event and is cast in Ruthless and The Oval.
January 2020: Dixon alleges Perry invited him to his home, where after drinking, Perry entered his guest room and began touching him inappropriately.
2020–2021: Multiple instances of harassment and groping occur—both on set and during cast trips, including in the Bahamas.
2023: After filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and exiting The Oval, Dixon states he lost approximately $400,000 and was diagnosed with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
The Tyler Perry Lawsuit: Allegations and Stakes
Dixon’s lawsuit includes multiple counts:
Quid pro quo sexual harassment
Sexual assault and battery
Workplace gender violence and hostile work environment
Intentional infliction of emotional distress
Retaliation after refusing Perry’s demands
Negligent retention and supervision by TPS Production Services
He seeks at least $260 million, including compensation for career damages, emotional trauma, and punitive losses.
Perry’s Response and Team’s Denials
Tyler Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, strongly denies all claims, accusing Dixon of mounting an extortion scheme. Perry himself has not personally commented, but his legal counsel maintains: “These fabricated claims of harassment will fail,” and emphasizes Dixon’s intention appears to be a “shakedown.”
So Is Tyler Perry Gay?
Though Dixon alleges queries into sexual preference, there is no public record or credible source confirming Perry’s sexual orientation. The lawsuit’s contents—private text messages and emotional context—have sparked public curiosity about Perry’s sexuality. Perry has never publicly identified as gay nor made statements indicating his sexual orientation, making “Tyler Perry gay” just a speculative as of now.
Hollywood Power Dynamics
This lawsuit places Tyler Perry, one of the industry’s most influential Black creators, alongside other high-profile figures accused of similar misconduct—sparking conversations about consent, abuse of power, and the responsibility of media moguls. Dixon’s case reflects broader systemic issues in Hollywood, prompting renewed scrutiny of studio culture and actor protections.
The case is moving toward litigation. A jury trial has been requested by Dixon. Whether Perry opts for a settlement or proceedings commence will be watched closely—its outcome could have implications for industry-wide accountability and studio dynamics.
