Derek Dixon Files $260M Lawsuit Against Tyler Perry Alleging Sexual Assault and Workplace Harassment

Actor and playwright Derek Dixon, known for his role on Tyler Perry's BET+ series The Oval, has filed a civil lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court against media mogul Tyler Perry, alleging sexual assault, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace. The lawsuit seeks over $260 million in damages.

According to the court documents filed on June 13, 2025, Dixon alleges that Perry engaged in a "persistent pattern of sexually inappropriate conduct," including explicit propositions, coercive behavior, and unwanted physical contact during the actor's time working on The Oval. The lawsuit details two incidents of alleged sexual assault occurring in January 2020 and June 2021, both reportedly taking place in Perry's private residence.

Dixon claims that his rejection of Perry's advances led to professional retaliation, including a hostile work environment and eventual removal from the series. The actor says he reported the alleged misconduct to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 2024, but no remedial actions were taken, prompting him to pursue legal recourse.

"This case is about holding a powerful figure accountable for egregious abuses of power in the workplace," said Dixon's legal team in a statement. "Mr. Dixon has suffered emotional trauma, reputational damage, and financial loss as a direct result of this alleged misconduct."

In response, a spokesperson for Tyler Perry and his attorney Matthew Boyd strongly denied the allegations, calling them "categorically false" and labeling the lawsuit a "publicity stunt" and "legal scam." Boyd added that Perry intends to "vigorously defend himself" and is confident the case will be dismissed.

Dixon is seeking damages for emotional distress, PTSD, career derailment, and financial losses exceeding $400,000.

No trial date has been set. The case is currently in the early stages of civil discovery.

 

 

Tags : sexual assault Derek Dixon Tyler Perry