URGENT UPDATE: Entertainment mogul Tyler Perry is facing a staggering $77 million sexual assault lawsuit filed by actor Mario Rodriguez, who claims the filmmaker used his power to make unwanted sexual advances over several years. The lawsuit, filed in California, follows Perry’s offer to Rodriguez for a role in the 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween.
This serious allegation comes as Perry, known for his substantial influence in Hollywood, is accused of sexual battery and assault at his Los Angeles home. Rodriguez’s complaint alleges multiple instances of misconduct spanning from 2014 to 2019.
Rodriguez, who also appeared in The Family Business, states he was approached at an Equinox gym in 2014 by a trainer who informed him that Perry wanted his phone number for a potential role. Following this, Perry allegedly encouraged him to audition for Boo! A Madea Halloween, suggesting, “You know, Mario, I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.”
According to the lawsuit, the dynamics changed when Perry invited Rodriguez to his residence, where an incident of assault allegedly occurred. The lawsuit also references events from 2016, 2018, and 2019, painting a troubling picture of Perry’s behavior towards aspiring actors.
Rodriguez claims he was motivated to file this lawsuit after learning about a previous case against Perry by Derek Dixon, who accused the entertainment mogul of creating a coercive and sexually exploitative environment. Rodriguez stated he “realized that Mr. Perry was continuing to use his power and influence to sexually assault hopeful actors” and felt compelled to share his story for justice.
Perry’s legal representative, Alex Spiro, has categorically denied all allegations, describing the lawsuit as a “failed money grab” from a lawyer who had previously lost a case against Perry. Spiro asserted that the claims are baseless, stemming from incidents over a decade ago.
This lawsuit marks the second time Perry has faced serious accusations of sexual misconduct, raising significant questions about accountability in the entertainment industry. With Perry’s estimated fortune at $1.4 billion, the implications of this case could be profound, not only for the mogul but also for the broader Hollywood landscape.
As this story develops, the entertainment world is watching closely. The ramifications of these allegations could reshape the narrative surrounding Hollywood’s treatment of aspiring actors and the power dynamics at play. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent legal battle.
