Derek Dixon, an actor from the show “The Oval,” has filed a lawsuit against Tyler Perry, alleging years of unwanted sexual advances and harassment. According to court documents o, Dixon’s claims trace back to a 2019 event where he first met Perry. During this encounter, Perry reportedly singled him out, exchanged contact information, and hinted at potential acting opportunities.
In 2020, Dixon visited Perry’s residence in Atlanta to explore professional ties. He alleges that after consuming too much alcohol, he passed out and awoke to find Perry beside him, touching his thighs. Despite expressing disinterest, Dixon claims that Perry’s behavior intensified.
The lawsuit states that Dixon was subsequently cast in Perry’s productions “Ruthless” and “The Oval.” During this period, he alleges Perry sent explicit messages discussing sexual preferences and expressed interest in men. Dixon’s role on “The Oval” involved playing a vulnerable character reliant on sex for survival, which he argues reflected Perry’s purported interest in a submissive dynamic.
Dixon recounts another incident at Perry’s home in late 2020, where Perry allegedly posed suggestive questions and grabbed his neck, remarking on his excitement. The most severe claim occurred in 2021, with Perry allegedly pulling down Dixon’s underwear during a late-night visit and instructing him to relax.
Dixon states he stayed silent initially to safeguard his career but submitted a formal complaint to the EEOC in 2024 before exiting the show. He is now seeking $260 million in damages. Tyler Perry’s attorney has dismissed the allegations as a “shakedown” and plans to contest the lawsuit.