Film and television mogul Tyler Perry has been named in a $77 million civil lawsuit filed by an aspiring actor who alleges sexual assault and misconduct.
The lawsuit, filed in California, adds to growing legal scrutiny surrounding the influential entertainment figure, though all claims remain unproven at this stage.
The plaintiff, Mario Rodriguez, is a model and actor who appeared in a small role in the 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween.
According to the complaint, Rodriguez alleges that Perry made repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years, beginning around 2015. The lawsuit claims these incidents occurred in private settings and were connected to discussions about career opportunities.
Rodriguez is seeking $77 million in damages, citing causes of action that include sexual assault, sexual battery, and emotional distress. The lawsuit also names Lionsgate, the distributor of the Madea film, alleging the company failed to properly address or prevent the alleged misconduct.
Court filings allege that Perry used his position of power within the entertainment industry to pursue inappropriate relationships with aspiring actors. Rodriguez claims he resisted the advances and felt pressured due to the imbalance of power and his hopes of advancing his career.
The complaint further alleges that Perry provided money to Rodriguez following certain encounters, which the plaintiff characterizes as part of a coercive dynamic. These claims have not been tested in court, and no criminal charges have been filed.
Tyler Perry has strongly denied all allegations. His legal team has described the lawsuit as baseless and characterized it as an attempt to seek financial gain rather than justice. Perry’s attorney has stated that the claims will be vigorously challenged and that Perry maintains his innocence.
Lionsgate has not publicly commented in detail on the lawsuit but is listed as a co-defendant in the case.
The lawsuit is notable because it is not the first civil claim of this nature brought against Perry in recent months. Earlier in 2025, another actor filed a separate lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and misconduct, seeking significantly higher damages. Perry has denied those claims as well.
Legal experts note that civil lawsuits involving powerful public figures often take years to resolve and may be dismissed, settled, or proceed to trial depending on evidence and legal rulings. At this stage, the allegations represent claims made by the plaintiff and do not constitute findings of fact.
The case is currently in its early stages. Next steps may include motions to dismiss, discovery, depositions, and potential settlement discussions. If the case proceeds, a judge or jury would ultimately determine whether the allegations are supported by evidence.
As with all legal matters involving allegations of sexual misconduct, it is important to emphasize that everyone involved is entitled to due process. Tyler Perry has not been convicted of any wrongdoing, and the outcome of the lawsuit remains uncertain.
The $77 million lawsuit against Tyler Perry underscores ongoing conversations in the entertainment industry about power, accountability, and workplace conduct. As the legal process unfolds, further details may emerge, but for now, the case remains a set of allegations that have yet to be proven in court.