Tyler Perry has been sued for sexual battery by actor Mario Rodriguez, who appeared in the film Boo! A Madea Halloween. The lawsuit names both Perry and Lionsgate as defendants. Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages linked to alleged incidents said to have occurred between 2016 and 2019.
Allegations Detailed In Lawsuit
According to the filing, Rodriguez claims Perry made repeated unwanted advances over several years. The complaint alleges physical contact during meetings and private encounters. One allegation states that Perry told him, “Man, if you would just come, I would take care of you for the rest of your life.”
The filing also includes an alleged incident from 2019, in which Rodriguez claims Perry placed his hand on him without consent. The lawsuit states, “More than ever before, it was clear that Mr. Perry would do whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted.” Rodriguez says he later left the situation and did not report it publicly at the time.
Responses From Legal Teams
Perry has denied all allegations through his lawyer, Alex Spiro. He added that similar claims made previously had not been successful.
This is nothing more than a failed money grab, and it will fail again, Spiro said.
Rodriguez’s lawyer, Jonathan Delshad, responded by rejecting the denial. The lawsuit states that Rodriguez is seeking accountability through the court process.
My client looks forward to a jury’s determination of what happened, Rodriguez’s lawyer said.
This case follows an earlier lawsuit filed in June 2025 by another actor, Derek Dixon, who accused Perry of misconduct and sought $260 million in damages. That separate case remains ongoing.
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