Actor Sues Tyler Perry for Sexual Assault Over ‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’
Actor Mario Rodriguez has taken legal action against filmmaker Tyler Perry, accusing him of sexual assault over incidents that allegedly transpired at Perry’s Los Angeles residence. The lawsuit, filed in a California state court, outlines several instances of unwanted sexual advances spanning multiple years.
Details of the Allegations Against Tyler Perry
Rodriguez claims that Perry subjected him to unwanted advances beginning as early as 2014. According to the complaint, a trainer at Equinox gym introduced Rodriguez to Perry, who subsequently called him regarding an audition for the film Boo! A Madea Halloween. After securing a role in the film, Rodriguez attended social gatherings at Perry’s home.
Specific Incidents Cited in the Lawsuit
- In 2016, after filming wrapped, Perry allegedly made inappropriate advances towards Rodriguez, including physical contact.
- In 2018, during a dinner meeting at Mastro’s Steakhouse, Rodriguez alleges Perry engaged in sexual behaviors, including attempts to unbuckle his pants and grab him inappropriately.
- Rodriguez claims that each time he resisted, he was given financial compensation, totaling $10,000 across multiple instances.
Rodriguez’s claims also include an assertion that Perry threatened his career while expressing his influence in Hollywood. He is seeking at least $77 million in damages.
Perry’s Response
A lawyer for Tyler Perry, Alex Spiro, has denied the allegations, claiming they stem from a previous failed lawsuit by the same attorney. Spiro’s statement categorized the lawsuit as an opportunistic money grab.
Previous Allegations Against Perry
This lawsuit marks the second formal accusation against Perry. In June, Derek Dixon, another actor, filed a complaint alleging similar patterns of assault. Dixon’s case has since been moved to federal court in Georgia.
Rodriguez decided to pursue his claims after learning about Dixon’s allegations, asserting that he felt compelled to share his story and seek justice.
Boo! A Madea Halloween was distributed by Lionsgate, which has not publicly commented on the situation. The entertainment community watches closely as these serious allegations unfold.
