Filmmaker and media mogul Tyler Perry is facing a second lawsuit alleging sexual assault, filed by an actor who appeared in one of the Madea franchise films. Perry has denied the claims, calling the lawsuit unfounded.
The new complaint was filed by Mario Rodriguez, a model who had a small role in the 2016 comedy Boo! A Madea Halloween. Rodriguez is seeking $77 million in damages, alleging that Perry made repeated unwanted advances and used his position of influence in the entertainment industry to pressure him with promises of future acting opportunities.
According to court documents reviewed by Entertainment Weekly, Rodriguez claims the alleged incidents occurred across several encounters, including meetings at Perry’s Los Angeles home and social outings. The lawsuit also names Lionsgate, the studio that distributes many of Perry’s films, alleging the company had awareness of misconduct and failed to intervene. More information about Lionsgate’s role in Perry’s film distribution can be found on the company’s official website.
Rodriguez is represented by attorney Jonathan J. Delshad, who is also representing actor Derek Dixon in a separate lawsuit against Perry filed earlier this year. Dixon’s case, which seeks $260 million in damages, similarly accuses Perry of sexual harassment and assault. That lawsuit was initially filed in California before being transferred to federal court in Georgia. Perry has publicly denied all allegations made in both cases.
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, issued a statement dismissing the new lawsuit, characterizing it as an attempt to extract money based on claims dating back more than a decade. Spiro suggested the case lacks merit and would ultimately fail, echoing the defense’s response in the earlier lawsuit.
Delshad responded to those remarks by stating that his client is seeking accountability and looks forward to presenting the case before a jury. He added that dismissive responses from Perry’s legal team do not address the seriousness of the allegations raised in the complaint.
Rodriguez alleges that he first came into contact with Perry in 2015 while working out at a Los Angeles gym, where he says a trainer approached him on Perry’s behalf to discuss a possible acting role. According to the complaint, Rodriguez later spoke with Perry by phone and was offered a small part in Boo! A Madea Halloween, in which he ultimately appeared as an uncredited fraternity member. Details about the film’s production and cast are available on platforms such as IMDb.
The lawsuit claims that weeks later, Rodriguez was invited alone to Perry’s home, where the alleged inappropriate behavior occurred. Rodriguez states that Perry initiated physical contact and made sexually suggestive remarks despite Rodriguez attempting to redirect the conversation toward professional matters. The complaint alleges that Rodriguez left the residence after feeling uncomfortable with the interaction.
Rodriguez further claims that similar advances continued during later meetings, including dinners and additional visits, and that he repeatedly rejected Perry. According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez believes his refusal led to promised acting opportunities never materializing. He also alleges that Perry attempted to give him money following some of these encounters, which Rodriguez interpreted as an effort to maintain influence over him.
While Rodriguez states that no inappropriate conduct occurred on the actual film set, he alleges the pattern of behavior outside of work created distress and affected his career prospects. The complaint asserts that Perry’s stature and control within the industry contributed to an imbalance of power that made it difficult for Rodriguez to speak out at the time.
Representatives for Lionsgate did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the allegations outlined in the lawsuit.
Perry, one of the most influential figures in film and television, has built a multibillion dollar media empire that includes Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. His work spans film, television, stage productions, and streaming partnerships, including content deals with platforms such as Netflix and Bet. The allegations now place renewed scrutiny on Perry as the legal proceedings move forward.
Both lawsuits remain active, and no court rulings have been made on the merits of the claims as of publication.
