Tyler Perry has denied allegations of sexual assault made by actor Mario Rodriguez. The actor recently filed a lawsuit seeking $77 million in damages. The lawsuit accuses Perry of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, connected to alleged encounters that Rodriguez says occurred years earlier.
Text Messages Referenced In Filing
Text messages of 2024 and 2025 appear to show Rodriguez discussing health concerns and financial difficulties with Perry. In one message, Rodriguez wrote that he had promised not to ask for anything but feared he could not afford medical care.
Some other messages appeared to show Rodriguez expressing appreciation and describing Perry as supportive. One message reads, “I just want to tell you thank you for everything. I appreciate you to the moon.” Another message states, “I’m glad that you’re my friend, and I love you, bro, respectfully.” The exchanges were sent months before the lawsuit was filed.
Legal Response And Background Details
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, rejected the allegations and described the lawsuit as financially motivated. In a statement, Spiro said, “This is nothing but a 77 million dollar money grab scam.” He also referred to a text message in which Perry allegedly told Rodriguez, “You don’t have to give me a thing.” I’m just glad you’re good.”
Rodriguez, who appeared in ‘Boo: A Madea Halloween’, claims he met Perry through a gym connection and later appeared in Boo! A Madea Halloween. He alleges that meetings tied to professional discussions later involved unwanted conduct. Perry has denied all accusations.
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