March 04, (THEWILL) — Tyler Perry has strongly denied allegations of sexual assault in two active lawsuits, most recently filing a formal response on February 27, 2026, to a $77 million suit.
His legal team described the claims as “frivolous”, a “shakedown”, and a “money grab” by a former associate.
The lawsuit, filed by actor Mario Rodriguez in Los Angeles County Superior Court, alleges that Perry sexually assaulted him and made unwanted advances between 2014 and 2019.
Rodriguez, who had a minor role in Perry’s 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween, claims Perry invited him to his home to discuss work. During one incident in 2018, Perry allegedly grabbed him despite repeated requests to stop.
Rodriguez also says Perry told him, “If you were to just be with me, I would take care of you,” and that after two incidents, Perry gave him $5,000.
Perry’s attorneys, led by Alex Spiro, denied “each and every allegation.”
They said Rodriguez used Perry as a “personal piggy bank” for years, repeatedly asking for money for rent, car payments, and medical bills. They claim Rodriguez made up the assault story after Perry stopped providing financial help.
Perry has filed 19 affirmative defences and wants to move the case to federal court in Georgia, citing his residency there.
Perry has faced similar legal issues before. In June 2025, actor Derek Dixon filed a separate $260 million lawsuit, alleging sexual harassment, battery, and retaliation.
Perry’s attorney called that suit a “fabricated scam” and a “shakedown.” In December 2025, a judge ordered that Dixon’s case be moved from California to the Georgia federal court.
The outcome of the $77 million lawsuit remains uncertain, but Perry continues to fight the case while maintaining his innocence.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
