Tyler Perry Sued Again for Sexual Assault by Actor Seeking $77 Million in Damages

Filmmaker and actor Tyler Perry is facing a second civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault, this time from Boo! A MadeaHalloween actor Mario Rodriguez, who is seeking $77 million damages.

The complaint was filed Thursday in California state court and marks another major legal challenge for the Hollywood figure whose work spans film, television, and stage.

What The Lawsuit Alleges

Rodriguez, who had a small role in the 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween, claims Perry made repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years, beginning during discussions about his career and extending through interactions in Perry’s Los Angeles home. The lawsuit includes allegations of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

According to the filing, Perry allegedly subjected Rodriguez to inappropriate physical contact and made advances during visits that were described as meetings about acting opportunities. The complaint also names Boo! A Madea Halloween distributor Lionsgate, asserting the studio ignored signs of misconduct.

Perry’s Response

Perry’s legal team has denied the claims. In statements obtained by media outlets, Perry’s attorney described the lawsuit as unfounded and framed it as a financially motivated filing. At the time of reporting, Lionsgate had not issued a public statement.

This is the second high-profile case against Perry in 2025. In June, actor Derek Dixon filed a separate lawsuit seeking $260 million, alleging sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation tied to his work on Perry’s television seriesThe Oval and Ruthless. Perry’s attorneys rejected those claims as well, calling them fabricated.

Neither lawsuit has gone to trial, and no criminal charges have been filed in either instance.

Related: Inside Tyler Perry’s Net Worth in 2025 and If He’s Actually a Billionaire

Why This Matters Now

This new lawsuit arrives amid broader public scrutiny of power dynamics in Hollywood and adds another layer to ongoing discussions about accountability in the entertainment industry.

The combination of two significant civil suits in a single year involving the same prominent figure elevates interest and search activity across news and legal beats. The $77 million figure and Lionsgate’s inclusion also broaden the potential implications beyond Perry individually.

Next: Who Is Tyler Perry Dating? Inside the Mega-Producer’s Relationship History