Prominent actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry finds himself embroiled in a serious legal battle for the second time this year. An aspiring actor has filed a sexual assault lawsuit against the Star Trek actor, seeking a staggering $77 million in damages.
The Allegations and the Accuser
The complainant is Mario Rodriguez, a model who had a minor role in Tyler Perry's 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween. According to the lawsuit filed on 25 December 2025, Rodriguez alleges that Perry sexually assaulted him and made repeated unwanted sexual advances. The suit claims these incidents occurred under the guise of discussing professional opportunities, with Perry allegedly promising roles in exchange for sexual favours.
Rodriguez's legal complaint details a specific alleged incident from November 2018. It states that Perry grabbed Rodriguez's penis at his home. Rodriguez claims he repeatedly told Perry to stop and had to physically struggle to get away. The lawsuit further alleges that Perry would tell him to "let it happen" and assured him, "If you were to just be with me, I would take care of you." Following two such incidents, Perry allegedly apologised, handed Rodriguez $5,000, and sent him away.
Legal Battle and War of Words
Rodriguez is being represented by attorney Jonathan J Delshad, who is also the lawyer for actor Derek Dixon. Dixon made similar allegations against Perry earlier in 2025. Delshad stated, "Mr. Rodriguez is looking forward to his day in court and holding Mr. Perry accountable for his actions." He also criticised Perry's legal team, saying their statements "enable Mr. Perry to continue to victimize people."
In a sharp rebuttal, Perry's attorney, Alex Spiro, dismissed the lawsuit as a "failed money grab." Spiro pointed out that Delshad had recently faced setbacks in another case against Perry and suggested this new lawsuit was a similar tactic. However, Delshad countered that Dixon's claims remain active and have simply been moved from a California court to a Georgia court.
A Pattern of Accusations?
This is the second sexual assault lawsuit filed against the 56-year-old actor this year, marking a significant legal and reputational challenge. The first was from actor Derek Dixon, whose case is now proceeding in Georgia. The new lawsuit from Rodriguez traces the origin of their professional relationship back to 2015, when a trainer at a Los Angeles gym approached Rodriguez saying Perry wanted to meet him. This led to a phone call from Perry and eventually the small role of "Frat Guy #10" in the Madea film.
The case highlights ongoing tensions in the entertainment industry regarding power dynamics and accountability. As both sides prepare for a legal showdown, the public and the industry await the court's determination of the facts surrounding these serious allegations against one of Hollywood's most powerful figures.
