Derek Dixon, a longtime actor on Tyler Perry’s BET drama The Oval, has filed a $260 million lawsuit against the media mogul, accusing him of sexual harassment, assault, and career retaliation.
The lawsuit, lodged in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday, paints a disturbing picture of alleged abuse of power and coercion behind the scenes of the hit television series.
Dixon, who featured in 85 episodes of The Oval, claims that what began as a dream opportunity in Hollywood quickly devolved into a manipulative and abusive dynamic.
According to the court filings, Perry first noticed Dixon in 2019 while the aspiring actor was working as event staff at one of the filmmaker’s private parties.
Impressed by Dixon’s appearance and demeanour, Perry allegedly offered him an audition, kickstarting what Dixon believed would be a breakthrough role.
Following a small part on Perry’s series Ruthless, Dixon was elevated to a recurring role on The Oval, a political drama which Perry writes, directs, and produces.
However, Dixon alleges that the professional opportunity came with deeply troubling strings attached.
In the complaint, Dixon asserts that Perry used his power and influence to make unwanted sexual advances, suggesting that the future of Dixon’s character—and his acting career—depended on how he responded.
He claims Perry warned that if he rejected or ignored the overtures, his character would be written off the show.
Attempting to preserve his role without confrontation, Dixon says he tried to remain polite and professional. Nonetheless, the alleged behaviour escalated.
In one particularly graphic incident detailed in the lawsuit, Perry is accused of forcibly removing Dixon’s clothing, groping him, and attempting to initiate non-consensual sexual contact.
Dixon says he clearly objected and told Perry “No,” after which Perry eventually relented and apologised.
“This lawsuit is about more than just me,” Dixon stated through his legal team. “It’s about holding those in power accountable, regardless of how influential they may be.”
In response, Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, issued a strongly worded denial, labelling the lawsuit a “scam” designed to extort money and exploit Perry’s fame.
“This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam,” Boyd said. “But Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”
Perry, 55, has not made a personal statement regarding the case.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!