Tyler Perry Lawsuit: Alleged Text Messages Central to $260M Sexual Assault Case

Last updated on June 20, 2025 @ 2:05 PM PT

A 46-page lawsuit has been filed against actor and producer Tyler Perry, seeking $260 million in damages. The plaintiff, Derek Dixon, alleges he was subjected to a series of sexual assaults by Perry, which began after the two met at an event at Perry’s mansion in 2019.

According to the lawsuit, Perry approached Dixon at the event, asked if he wanted to be an actor, and the two exchanged phone numbers. The filing details four specific incidents that form the basis of the complaint.

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Tyler Perry Lawsuit Details From The Guest Bedroom

The first incident allegedly occurred when Dixon was invited to Perry’s mansion. The two began drinking, and when it was time for bed, Dixon went to a guest room. After getting into bed in his underwear with the lights off, Dixon claims he felt Perry get into the bed with him, followed by “a little rub.”

Tyler Perry Text Messages About The TV Show Trailer

The second incident reportedly took place after Dixon was given a job on the TV show The Oval. Perry allegedly invited Dixon to his trailer, where he again brought out alcohol. Dixon alleges that after they drank together, Perry pushed him against a wall and began rubbing his groin area, leaving Dixon “in fear.”

Text Messages Between Tyler Perry & Derek Dixon

Tyler Perry Sexual Assault Lawsuit on Private Island

A third incident is alleged to have happened on Perry’s private island. Perry once again invited Dixon to drink alcohol. According to Dixon, he felt compelled to comply due to a “quid pro quo” arrangement, fearing he would lose his job otherwise. The lawsuit claims Perry then reached for Dixon’s groin, squeezing and rubbing it.

Tyler Perry Court Case Evidence From Scale Incident

The final incident detailed in the lawsuit occurred in June of 2021, when Dixon was again invited to the mansion. The filing alleges that Perry wanted to show Dixon a weight scale and insisted he had to take off his clothes down to his underwear to use it.

After Dixon complied, Perry asked for a “goodnight hug” and allegedly proceeded to squeeze and rub his groin again. The lawsuit states that Dixon was “frozen in fear” before Perry, noticing his state, said he was drunk and left.

Legal Standing and Aftermath

The lawsuit contends that these incidents are part of a clear pattern of behavior. Dixon claims he was so distraught that he sought counseling and was subsequently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the alleged assaults.

As noted in the complaint, cases like this often come down to one person’s word against another’s. However, the filing reportedly contains text messages that are “not good for Perry.” A central question for a jury would be whether Dixon has a credible reason to lie. While the defense may argue the $260 million demand provides a motive, Dixon’s attorneys will argue the amount is justified by the severe emotional and psychological damages he has suffered.

Sexual Assault and Abuse Representation

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault or abuse, it’s crucial to seek qualified legal representation. Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers has experience handling sensitive cases with discretion and determination. For a confidential consultation regarding your legal rights, contact Wooldridge Law Injury Lawyers at (702) 867-8900.

This article is based on allegations contained in a legal filing. Tyler Perry is presumed innocent of all allegations unless proven otherwise in a court of law.