Actor Mario Rodriguez has filed a $77 million lawsuit against Tyler Perry and Lionsgate, accusing the filmmaker of repeated sexual assault over several years.
Background of the Lawsuit
Mario Rodriguez filed the complaint Thursday in California. He alleges that Tyler Perry subjected him to unwanted sexual advances from 2014 through 2019. The lawsuit claims that the assaults occurred at Perry’s Los Angeles home and during other encounters.
Allegations of Sexual Battery and Assault
Rodriguez says Perry repeatedly touched him inappropriately while they watched a movie at Perry’s house. The complaint also details incidents in 2016, 2018 and 2019, including an attempt by Perry to unbuckle Rodriguez’s pants and a placement of Perry’s hand on Rodriguez’s genitals. According to the filing, Perry gave Rodriguez $5,000 on several occasions following these encounters.
Connection to “Boo! A Madea Halloween”
In 2014, a trainer at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles approached Rodriguez. The trainer said Perry wanted his phone number to discuss an acting role. Perry later encouraged Rodriguez to audition for “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” telling him, “I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner,” the lawsuit claims.
Additional Claims and Damages
Rodriguez seeks at least $77 million in damages. His complaint also includes claims of intentional infliction of emotional distress. He alleges that the repeated advances caused him significant emotional harm.
Lionsgate’s Involvement
The lawsuit extends to Lionsgate, the distributor of the 2016 film. Rodriguez accuses the studio of turning a blind eye to Perry’s alleged misconduct. Lionsgate did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
Perry’s Legal Response
In a statement, Tyler Perry’s lawyer denied the allegations. No further details were provided by the lawyer in the public statement.
Related Allegations by Derek Dixon
Rodriguez said he decided to file suit after learning of similar allegations made by actor Derek Dixon. Dixon sued Perry in June, claiming Perry groped him while working on “The Oval” and “Ruthless.”
Legal Proceedings for Dixon’s Case
Dixon’s lawsuit was originally filed in Los Angeles Superior Court. It has since been moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry’s studio is based. The case remains pending.
Scope of the Current Lawsuit
Rodriguez’s lawsuit includes claims of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. These claims are directed at both Tyler Perry and Lionsgate.
Context of Recent Hollywood Allegations
This lawsuit is the second in recent months accusing Tyler Perry of leveraging his Hollywood power to make sexual advances. The first was the case involving Derek Dixon.
Financial Implications for Lionsgate
Rodriguez’s claim that Lionsgate turned a blind eye raises potential liability for the distributor. The lawsuit could impact the studio’s reputation and financial standing.
Potential Impact on Perry’s Career
Tyler Perry has denied Derek Dixon’s claims of misconduct and retaliation. The current lawsuit adds further scrutiny to his professional conduct.
Legal Strategy and Evidence
The complaint alleges that Perry provided Rodriguez with money after the alleged incidents. The $5,000 payments are presented as evidence of the relationship’s nature.
Timeline of Alleged Incidents
The lawsuit traces incidents from 2014 to 2019. Key moments include the initial contact at Equinox, the casting for “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” and the home visits.
Settlement Possibilities
Rodriguez is seeking a substantial monetary settlement. No settlement discussions have been reported publicly.
Public and Industry Reactions
No public statements have been made by industry figures beyond the parties involved. The case has drawn attention within Hollywood circles.
Key Takeaways
- Mario Rodriguez filed a $77 million lawsuit alleging sexual assault by Tyler Perry and seeking damages from Lionsgate.
- The complaint details repeated advances from 2014 to 2019, including incidents at Perry’s home and during film production.
- Derek Dixon’s earlier lawsuit adds context to a pattern of alleged misconduct by Tyler Perry.
The lawsuit remains a developing story, with further legal actions and potential settlements yet to be announced.
