Entertainment
Actor Derek Dixon Accuses Tyler Perry of Sexual Harassment in $260 Million Lawsuit
Actor Derek Dixon has filed a $260 million lawsuit against media mogul Tyler Perry, accusing him of sexual harassment, assault, and workplace retaliation during his tenure on Perry’s BET shows “The Oval” and “Ruthless”. In his first televised interview since filing the complaint, Dixon detailed a series of alleged incidents, claiming Perry sent him sexually suggestive text messages, made persistent unwanted advances—including physical contact—and implied that Dixon’s continuing employment on “The Oval” depended on his compliance.
Dixon alleges that after rebuffing Perry’s advances, his character was written off the show, which he interpreted as professional retaliation, and claims the experience led to severe anxiety, depression, and the loss of both his job and a TV pilot he had written, the rights to which he says Perry still holds. Dixon says his $260 million claim includes lost income and aims to deter future misconduct by using the legal system as a corrective measure against workplace harassment by figures in power.
Perry, through his attorney, has categorically denied all allegations, characterizing the lawsuit as “fabricated” and a “scam,” and expressing confidence that the claims will not stand up in court. Dixon maintains that his aim is accountability and change, expressing hope that his actions will help protect others in the entertainment industry from similar experiences.