Actor Derek Dixon has filed a lawsuit against renowned filmmaker Tyler Perry, claiming sexual harassment and seeking a staggering $260 million in damages.
The lawsuit, which also calls for a jury trial, alleges that Perry made unwanted advances towards Dixon during their professional interactions.
According to court documents, the two first met at an event in 2019, where Perry reportedly singled out Dixon and requested his phone number with the promise of potential acting opportunities. Following this meeting, Dixon was cast in a minor role in Perry’s series “Ruthless.”
The lawsuit details an encounter in January 2020 when Dixon accepted Perry’s invitation to his Atlanta home.
After consuming alcohol, Dixon claims he fell asleep in a guest room, only to wake up to Perry allegedly getting into bed with him and touching his thighs.
Despite rejecting these advances, Dixon asserts that Perry continued to express interest.
Shortly thereafter, Dixon landed a role in the series “The Oval,” but he alleges that this success was marred by inappropriate sexual texts from Perry.
These messages reportedly included explicit questions about Dixon’s sexual preferences and comments about Perry’s own sexual experiences.
The lawsuit describes further incidents where Perry allegedly initiated sexually charged conversations during subsequent meetings, including one instance where he reportedly grabbed Dixon by the throat while making suggestive remarks.
Dixon is suing for quid pro quo harassment and sexual assault and battery, citing a pattern of behavior that he claims created a hostile work environment.
The lawsuit includes numerous text messages purportedly exchanged between the two men, with many of Perry’s messages being sexually explicit in nature.
As this high-profile case unfolds, it raises significant questions about power dynamics within the entertainment industry and the importance of addressing allegations of harassment seriously.
Both sides are expected to present their cases in court as the legal proceedings progress.
