LOS ANGELES — A California model has filed a civil lawsuit accusing film and television producer Tyler Perry of sexual assault and misconduct over several years, seeking $77 million in damages.
Mario Rodriguez, 28, alleges in the suit, filed Monday in Los Angeles state court, that Perry used his position in the entertainment industry to exploit and abuse him while recruiting him for acting roles. The alleged incidents span from 2015 to 2019.
In response, Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, dismissed the lawsuit as “a failed money grab” before it was filed.
Allegations Detailed in the Suit
According to the filing, Rodriguez was approached at a Los Angeles gym by a trainer who said Perry wanted to discuss acting opportunities. Perry allegedly contacted Rodriguez the same day, recruiting him for a role in what would become Boo! A Madea Halloween.
Rodriguez claims Perry was impressed by his modeling work on Instagram but proceeded to make unwanted sexual advances. The suit details multiple instances in which Perry allegedly touched Rodriguez inappropriately, including rubbing his inner thigh and guiding his hand onto Perry’s genitals. Perry is also alleged to have offered financial support to Rodriguez following some of the encounters.
Rodriguez’s attorney emphasized that such payments do not negate the allegations, noting that financial assistance can be a part of the power dynamics present in abuse cases.
Lawsuit Includes Lionsgate
In addition to Perry, the suit names Lionsgate, the distributor for Perry’s studios, claiming the company “failed to act” and enforce safeguards that could have prevented the alleged misconduct. The suit argues that the assaults would not have occurred without Perry’s position of power within the company.
Rodriguez said in a statement, “Continued financial support and access are not inconsistent with abuse—they are often part of the power dynamics that follow it.”
Previous Allegations Against Perry
This lawsuit follows a similar case filed in June by another plaintiff, Derek Dixon, who also accused Perry of inappropriate touching in exchange for career opportunities. Dixon’s suit, seeking $260 million, has been moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry operates his studios and maintains a residence.
Both cases have brought renewed scrutiny to Perry’s professional conduct, highlighting ongoing legal challenges for the entertainment mogul.
