Tyler Perry Hit with $77M Sexual Assault Lawsuit by 'Boo! A Madea Halloween' Actor
Image Source: Internet
A second high-profile lawsuit has been filed against Tyler Perry, accusing the renowned filmmaker of using his power in Hollywood to make unwanted sexual advances. Mario Rodriguez, an actor who appeared in the 2016 film 'Boo! A Madea Halloween,' has sued Perry for $77 million, alleging repeated instances of sexual battery and assault at Perry's Los Angeles home. According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez was initially approached by a trainer at an Equinox gym in 2014 with the offer to discuss an acting role with Perry. After being cast in the film, Rodriguez was invited to Perry's home, where he claims Perry made unwanted physical contact while watching a movie. The lawsuit details several alleged incidents between 2016 and 2019, including one encounter where Perry allegedly attempted to unbuckle Rodriguez's pants and another where he placed Rodriguez's hand on his genitals. Perry allegedly provided Rodriguez with $5,000 on multiple occasions following these encounters. Rodriguez resisted the advances and eventually decided to file the lawsuit after learning of similar allegations made by another actor, Derek Dixon, who sued Perry in June. The new lawsuit includes claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. This is the second lawsuit in recent months to accuse Perry of leveraging his power in Hollywood to make unwanted advances. Lionsgate, the studio that distributed 'Boo! A Madea Halloween,' is also being sued for allegedly turning a blind eye to Perry's alleged misconduct. Perry's lawyer has denied the allegations, and a spokesperson for Lionsgate has declined to comment on the matter.
