News reaching GhanaRegions.com indicate that, on June 13, 2025, actor Derek Dixon, known for his roles in BET’s Ruthless and The Oval, filed a civil lawsuit against media mogul Tyler Perry in Los Angeles Superior Court.
The suit alleges a pattern of sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation spanning from 2019 to 2021, tied to Perry’s prominent productions. Dixon is seeking $260 million in damages and has requested a jury trial.
Who is Derek Dixon?
Dixon is an actor and playwright from Raleigh, North Carolina, who was cast by Perry in Ruthless (2019) and later The Oval. Perry is alleged to have approached Dixon at a studio launch event in Atlanta in 2019 and continued contact by offering career opportunities—only for unwanted advances to begin.
How and why did this escalate?
2019–2020: Perry allegedly sent sexually suggestive texts and promised career support.
Jan 2020: Dixon stayed overnight at Perry’s Georgia home, where Perry is accused of getting into bed and rubbing Dixon’s inner thigh despite Dixon’s objections.
Oct 2020: During a cast trip, Perry allegedly groped Dixon.
June 2021: During a meeting supposedly about a TV pilot at Perry’s home, Perry allegedly pulled down Dixon’s underwear, “vigorously grabbed” him, and made overt advances.
Retaliation threat: When Dixon didn’t comply, Perry allegedly used his industry power to threaten Dixon’s career—implying he could kill off characters or remove actors.
Mental health toll: Dixon says he suffered PTSD, depression, insomnia, stomach issues, and required medication. He also claims to have lost roughly $400,000 by leaving The Oval.
When did Dixon take legal action?
In 2024, Dixon filed a sexual harassment complaint with the EEOC, though it reportedly resulted in no action.
On June 13, 2025, he followed with a $260 million lawsuit, stating abuse took place between 2020 and 2021.
Perry’s response
Tyler Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, vehemently denies all accusations, calling the lawsuit a “fabricated scam” aimed at extortion and asserting they will “fail” in court.
What comes next?
The case is ongoing, with a jury trial potentially on the calendar.
If proven, Dixon could receive substantial damages, though Perry’s team is focused on dismissing the case.
More revelations may surface during discovery—text messages, meeting context, communications, etc.
The outcome could have broader implications for the entertainment industry’s handling of power dynamics and workplace misconduct.
