Tyler Perry is facing fresh legal trouble as actor and model Mario Rodriguez has filed a lawsuit alleging unwanted sexual advances during their professional interactions.
The suit, filed Thursday in California against Perry and Lionsgate Films, claims the incidents began in 2015 after a gym trainer told Rodriguez Perry wanted to meet him.
Rodriguez says Perry contacted him that same day, suggesting a role in an upcoming movie. Despite Rodriguez telling Perry he had no acting experience, Perry allegedly responded, “You know, Mario, I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.”
According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez went to Perry’s home where, after drinking in the kitchen, Perry reportedly rubbed his shoulders and chest in a sexually suggestive manner. Rodriguez says he left shortly afterward.
Rodriguez maintains that on set for Boo! A Madea Halloween, Perry was professional and never acted inappropriately. The alleged misconduct, he claims, occurred after filming when Perry would invite him to discuss future projects.
Rodriguez describes multiple incidents in which Perry reportedly made explicit sexual requests, including groping and forcing sexual contact, offering cash afterward $5,000 on at least two occasions as an apology.
Rodriguez is suing for sexual assault, sexual battery, and emotional distress, seeking punitive damages of at least $77 million.
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, responded, saying, “Having recently failed in another matter against Mr. Perry, the very same lawyer has now made yet another demand from more than a decade ago which will also be a failed money grab.”
This lawsuit follows a similar claim from The Oval actor Derek Dixon, who previously alleged quid pro quo harassment and sexual assault by Perry. Perry has denied all prior allegations.
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