A Los Angeles-area actor and model has filed a high-stakes civil lawsuit against entertainment mogul Tyler Perry, alleging multiple incidents of sexual assault and unwanted advances spanning several years. The complaint seeks at least $77 million in damages and names both Perry and a major film distributor as defendants, intensifying public and legal focus on the filmmaker’s professional relationship.
Allegations Detail Unwanted Advances and Assault Claims
The lawsuit, filed in California state court, claims that Mario Rodriguez — who appeared in a minor role in the 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween — was subjected to persistent unwanted sexual advances by Perry between 2014 and 2019. It alleges that several inappropriate incidents occurred at the filmmaker’s Los Angeles residence and during professional interactions tied to prospective acting work.
According to court documents, the accuser claims Perry made physical contact that went beyond professional boundaries, including alleged touching and other conduct he did not consent to. Rodriguez argues that the behavior caused emotional harm and used Perry’s influence in the industry as leverage. The suit also asserts that the film’s distributor failed to address or prevent the alleged misconduct.
Model’s Response to New Text Messages
In response to scrutiny over text messages that emerged showing cordial exchanges between Rodriguez and Perry as recently as late 2024, the plaintiff maintains that such messages do not contradict the alleged abuse. The model emphasized that survivors of power-imbalanced situations may still express gratitude or stay polite while coping with complex circumstances. These communications reportedly include expressions of gratitude and friendship, which Rodriguez says reflect vulnerability rather than consent.
Perry’s Legal Team Denies the Claims
Tyler Perry’s attorney has strongly denied the allegations, labeling the lawsuit a “money grab scam.” The defense points out that a similar lawsuit earlier this year — filed by another actor alleging sexual misconduct — has been characterized as without merit and is being contested in court. Perry’s legal team has stated its intent to vigorously defend against the latest claims and reject any notion of wrongdoing.
