Tyler Perry sued for $77 million by actor alleging sexual assault

Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of sexual assault.

American actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry has been sued over sexual assault allegations by an aspiring actor, who is seeking $77 million (~P4.52 billion) in damages.

Mario Rodriguez, a model and actor who had a minor role in the 2016 movie Boo! A Madea Halloween, alleged that the actor-director repeatedly made unwanted sexual advances toward him over several years, including sexual battery and assault at Perry’s home in Los Angeles, according to AP News.

Detailing his claims, People reported that Rodriguez claimed in the lawsuit that Perry would invite him over to his home for a supposed discussion of future projects, but the latter made sexual advances instead while drinking.

In the lawsuit, Rodriguez said he met Perry when a trainer approached him at a Los Angeles gym, saying the filmmaker wanted to meet him. They later talked over the phone, where Rodriguez was offered a minor role as a "Frat Guy #10" in the 2016 film.

In November 2018, Perry allegedly "grabbed [Rodriguez's] penis," and Rodriguez "repeatedly told Mr. Perry to stop," and that he had to "physically struggle to get away."

Rodriguez's lawsuit also claimed that Perry allegedly would tell him to "let it happen" and "If you were to just be with me, I would take care of you..."

He also claimed that Perry gave him $5,000 (~P293,550) on multiple occasions after the alleged assault.

The alleged encounters took place in 2016, 2018, and 2019.

Rodriguez is seeking a minimum of $77 million in damages. He also sued film production company Lionsgate, claiming that the company did not address Perry's alleged assault.

For his part, Perry's lawyer denied the allegations, dismissing them as another "failed money grab."

"Having recently failed in another matter against Mr. Perry, the very same lawyer has now made yet another demand from more than a decade ago, which will also be a failed money grab," Alex Spiro, an attorney for Perry, said in a Dec. 26 statement.

Perry has also faced the same allegations from another actor, Derek Dixon, earlier this year. Both Dixon and Rodriguez are represented by Jonathan J. Delshad.

Perry is known for his roles in films and TV shows, including Sistas, Straw, and the Madea film and series franchise.