Derek Dixon, the actor who filed a high-profile $260 million sexual harassment lawsuit against entertainment mogul Tyler Perry, is speaking out publicly for the first time since initiating the legal battle in Los Angeles Superior Court last month.
Dixon, who appeared as “Dale” on Perry’s BET+ series Ruthless and The Oval, alleges that Perry engaged in sexual harassment, assault, battery, and retaliation over the course of their professional relationship. In an interview conducted via email with The Hollywood Reporter, Dixon said the decision to file the lawsuit was “terrifying”, but necessary.
“Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them,” Dixon said. “My goal is to help ensure that the next generation of actors and creatives don’t have to choose between their dreams and their dignity.”
The Allegations
Filed on June 13, Dixon’s complaint accuses Perry of fostering a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic,” including groping, sexual advances, and professional retaliation when those advances were allegedly rebuffed. Among the most serious claims: Perry allegedly pinned Dixon against the wall of a trailer and “aggressively groped Dixon’s buttocks,” with further incidents allegedly occurring at Perry’s home.
The lawsuit outlines claims of quid pro quo sexual harassment, sexual battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and retaliation. Dixon is seeking $260 million in damages and has requested a jury trial.
Dixon said that prior to filing suit, attempts were made to address the situation privately, but that they “never result in the type of change necessary to protect further victims.”
“At the end of the day my absolute fear is that he will be able to continue doing this without any major consequences,” Dixon said.
Response from Tyler Perry’s Legal Team
Attorney Matthew Boyd, representing Perry, dismissed the allegations as baseless and reiterated a statement previously issued to PEOPLE:
“This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam. But Tyler will not be shaken down and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”
Repercussions and Broader Impact
Dixon said the fallout since filing the lawsuit has included a mixed public response and even death threats, adding that such backlash is why many survivors, particularly men, do not come forward.
“I knew it would be awful. And I was right,” Dixon stated.
Dixon admitted he initially rationalized the misconduct as part of “the industry,” but eventually reached a breaking point: “I couldn’t stay silent anymore.”
Legal Significance
The lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about power imbalances in the entertainment industry, particularly when it comes to male survivors of sexual harassment. Legal observers say the case, while still in its early stages, could serve as a watershed moment if it proceeds to trial.
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Perry, and he has not responded personally to the allegations. A trial date has not yet been set.
