Actor Files Lawsuit Accusing Tyler Perry of Sexual Assault, Seeks $77 Million

Tyler Perry has been sued in California by an actor who appeared in the 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween, over allegations of sexual assault.

The lawsuit was filed by Mario Rodriguez, who alleges that the filmmaker and media mogul subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances over several years.

According to the complaint, Rodriguez claims Perry first contacted him in 2014 through a trainer at an Equinox gym in Los Angeles and later offered him an acting opportunity.

The lawsuit states that Perry encouraged Rodriguez to audition for “Boo! A Madea Halloween” and subsequently invited him to his Los Angeles home, where the first alleged incident occurred.

Rodriguez alleges that Perry touched him inappropriately while they were watching a movie.

The lawsuit further details additional alleged incidents in 2016, 2018, and 2019, including claims that Perry attempted to unbuckle Rodriguez’s pants and placed Rodriguez’s hand on his genitals.

The complaint also alleges that Perry gave Rodriguez $5,000 on multiple occasions following the encounters.

Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages and has also named Lionsgate as a defendant, accusing the studio of failing to address the alleged misconduct.

Perry’s attorney has denied all allegations.