‘Boo! A Madea Halloween’ Actor Sues Tyler Perry for $77 Million in Assault Case
In a recent legal development, an actor from the film “Boo! A Madea Halloween” has filed a lawsuit against Tyler Perry, claiming sexual assault. The lawsuit, filed by Mario Rodriguez, seeks $77 million in damages and accuses the filmmaker of repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years.
Details of the Lawsuit
Rodriguez lodged the lawsuit in California, highlighting multiple incidents that allegedly occurred at Perry’s home in Los Angeles. The complaint indicates that the actor experienced sexual battery and assault following his casting in the film.
Key Allegations
- Rodriguez claims that he was first contacted in 2014 by a trainer at an Equinox gym who mentioned Perry wanted to reach him for an acting opportunity.
- After auditioning for “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” Rodriguez was reportedly invited to Perry’s residence.
- At this meeting, Perry allegedly made inappropriate physical advances while they were watching a movie.
- The lawsuit details additional incidents occurring in 2016, 2018, and 2019, including one instance where Perry allegedly tried to unbuckle Rodriguez’s pants.
- Rodriguez claims Perry inappropriately placed his hand on Perry’s genitals during another encounter.
Response and Background
Perry’s legal team has denied the allegations, asserting that the claims are unfounded. The lawsuit also targets Lionsgate, the distributor of the 2016 film, accusing the studio of ignoring Perry’s alleged misconduct.
Related Cases
Rodriguez’s lawsuit is not isolated. Another actor, Derek Dixon, similarly accused Perry in June of inappropriate behavior while working on Perry’s television shows “The Oval” and “Ruthless.” This prior lawsuit has transitioned from the Los Angeles Superior Court to federal court in Georgia, where Perry’s studio operates.
Legal Charges in the Lawsuit
Rodriguez has made several serious charges against Perry, including:
- Sexual assault
- Sexual battery
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress
As this situation unfolds, it highlights ongoing concerns regarding power dynamics in Hollywood and the treatment of actors, particularly in relation to misconduct allegations.
