Actor Derek Dixon has filed a $260 million lawsuit against Tyler Perry, alleging that Perry repeatedly sexually assaulted and harassed him during his time on the TV drama “The Oval”. The lawsuit claims that Perry used his influence in the entertainment industry to silence Dixon and prevent him from speaking out until now.
Dixon appeared on 85 episodes of the show, which has had a six-season run on the BET network. According to the lawsuit, Perry first noticed Dixon in 2019 when he was part of the event staff at one of Perry’s parties, and later offered him an audition.
The allegations against Perry include unwanted sexual text messages, physical assaults, and professional retaliation. The lawsuit claims that Perry offered Dixon a prominent role on the show as his advances became more aggressive, and that Dixon tried to maintain boundaries while still keeping his job.
Dixon alleges that he was eventually forced into sex by Perry on multiple occasions, including being groped in bed at Perry’s house. He also claims that Perry continued to harass him after he moved from Atlanta to Los Angeles.
Perry’s attorney has denied the allegations, calling Dixon a “scam artist” who set up a situation to gain attention and money. The case is ongoing.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tyler-perry-lawsuit-actor-the-oval-sexual-assault-harassment-denies