The actor and modelMario Rodrigueztook legal action against the filmmakerTyler Perryin Califórnia, demanding at least US$77 million in compensation. The complaint accuses Perry of sexual harassment, sexual battery and intentional emotional infliction.
Rodriguez alleges that the incidents occurred at multiple gatherings at Perry’s residence in Los Angeles between 2016 and 2019. The lawsuit also names distributor Lionsgate, who is accused of ignoring the alleged behavior.
The lawsuit was filed on December 25, 2025 and represents the second similar accusation against Perry in as many months.
Start of contact
Rodriguez reports that it all started in 2014 or 2015, when a trainer from gym Equinox in Los Angeles approached him. The coach advised that Perry wanted his phone number to discuss an acting opportunity.
Perry called Rodriguez and encouraged him to audition for a role in the filmBoo! A Madea Halloween, from 2016. Durante the conversation, the filmmaker reportedly said: “I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.”
Rodriguez landed a small role as “Frat Guy #10” in the film.
- After being cast, Rodriguez was invited to Perry’s house.
- There, while they were watching a movie, Perry allegedly touched her inner thigh inappropriately.
- Rodriguez tried to walk away, but Perry insisted with promises of lifelong support.
Alleged incidents
The complaint describes multiple episodes of unwanted sexual advances over the years.
In 2016, after filming, Perry allegedly touched Rodriguez’s leg close to the genital region.
In 2018, after dinner, Perry allegedly hugged Rodriguez tightly and grabbed his penis.
In 2019, another incident involved Perry placing Rodriguez’s hand on his own genitals.
Rodriguez claims he rejected the advances on every occasion. In some cases, Perry reportedly apologized and gave the actor $5,000 in cash before he left.
Defense response
Tyler Perry’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, denied the allegations. Ele classified the action as “another extortion attempt from more than a decade ago that will also fail”.
Spiro highlighted that Rodriguez and the previous plaintiff, Derek Dixon, share the same attorney, Jonathan Delshad.
Perry faces another similar complaint from Dixon, filed in June 2025, which seeks $260 million and involves the filmmaker’s TV series.
Career of Tyler Perry
Tyler Perry, 56, has built an estimated fortune of $1.4 billion from the Madea franchise and other projects.
He directs, writes and acts in several productions. Seu studio in Atlanta is one of the largest of the Estados Unidos.
Perry has gained recognition as one of the highest-paid entertainers in the world.
- The Madea franchise includes comedies centered on the tough, elderly character.
- Perry expanded into TV series and dramas.
- He has also offered support to public figures such as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2020.
Current action details
Rodriguez’s complaint includes claims against Lionsgate for alleged omission.
The company distributedBoo! A Madea Halloweenand did not comment on the case immediately.
Rodriguez decided to proceed after learning of Dixon’s action.
He alleges that Perry used his influence to create coercive situations with aspiring actors.
Other similar accusations
Derek Dixon’s lawsuit, filed in federal court on Geórgia, remains active.
Dixon has worked on series such asThe Oval e Ruthless.
He accuses Perry of escalated sexual harassment and professional retaliation.
The two complaints share attorney Jonathan Delshad, which Perry’s defense uses to question financial motivations.
