Tyler Perry Rebuts $260 Million Assault Lawsuit, Says Accuser is “Exploiting” Their Relationship

Tyler Perry has issued a forceful legal response to a $260 million lawsuit brought by actor Derek Dixon, calling the claims “false” and asserting that Dixon “needs help,” according to an Oct. 1 filing in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.

In the brief, Perry’s team argues that Dixon has distorted “platonic friendship and professional mentorship” into something “sinister,” and that the suit leans on “Hollywood stereotypes and the bad acts of others.”

“Dixon invents alleged assaults and encounters that never happened,” the filing states, denying that Perry ever assaulted Dixon or used career incentives to threaten or coerce him.

Perry’s lawyers further contend the case was filed in the wrong state, saying Georgia, where Perry’s productions were filmed, is the proper venue, and argue the dispute stems from Perry’s refusal or inability to sell Dixon’s pilot to Netflix, not misconduct. Perry “looks forward to refuting each and every false accusation in court,” the motion adds.

Dixon, who appeared in Perry’s BET dramas The Oval and Ruthless, sued in June alleging sexual harassment, assault, retaliation, and related claims, seeking at least $260 million in damages.

Initial reports on the complaint detailed accusations that spanned several years of work with Perry and his studio. Perry has consistently denied the allegations through counsel.

Responding to Perry’s new filing, Dixon’s attorney Jonathan J. Delshad said Perry offered “no evidence” that the text messages cited in the complaint are fabricated. Delshad maintains that messages show Perry made explicit sexual remarks, asked about Dixon’s sex life, and tied professional opportunities to those interactions.

“No employer has the right to manipulate or threaten an employee’s livelihood based on sexual expectations,” he said, adding that they are confident a jury will find harassment, assault, and battery occurred.

The case, which has drawn significant attention due to Perry’s profile in film and television, now turns on procedural and factual battles that will determine whether Dixon’s claims proceed and where they will be tried. Both sides say they are prepared to prove their positions in court