Actor Derek Dixon Files $260 Million Lawsuit Against Tyler Perry for Sexual Harassment and Assault
Actor Derek Dixon has filed a lawsuit against Tyler Perry for $260 million, alleging sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation. The complaint, filed in Los Angeles, accuses Perry of creating a coercive and sexually exploitative relationship with Dixon while working on Perry's shows The Oval and Ruthless. Dixon claimed that Perry promised him career advancement and creative opportunities but subjected him to escalating harassment, assault, and retaliation when Dixon did not reciprocate Perry's advances.
Perry's attorney, Matthew Boyd, responded to the complaint, calling it a scam and stating that Perry will not be shaken down. Dixon alleged that Perry made suggestive advances towards him and offered him a small role on Ruthless. He claimed that Perry sexually assaulted him at his home and later offered him a series regular role on The Oval. Dixon also alleged that Perry threatened to kill off his character if he did not engage with Perry's advances.
The complaint further detailed incidents of alleged groping during a cast trip to the Bahamas and another sexual assault at a meeting to discuss Dixon's pilot for a show. Dixon sought medical help for symptoms of stress, insomnia, and low cortisol levels due to the harassment and assault. He was diagnosed with PTSD and claimed that Perry's team offered him a raise to return to The Oval and produce his show, Losing It.
Despite continuing to work on The Oval, Dixon eventually left the show, resulting in a loss of nearly $400,000. The lawsuit includes claims of sexual harassment, battery, assault, emotional distress, and retaliation. Dixon is requesting a jury trial and $260 million in damages. Representatives for BET, the network behind the shows, have been contacted for comment.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org. Stay updated on the latest news and stories by signing up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter.