Hollywood never sleeps—and apparently, neither do the lawsuits. Tyler Perry, the megastar filmmaker and Madea mastermind, is back in the legal spotlight, and this time, it’s a whopping $77 million lawsuit from aspiring actor Mario Rodriguez. Yep, you read that right—$77 million.
What Happened Between Mario Rodriguez and Tyler Perry
Here’s the tea. Mario Rodriguez, a model who landed a minor role in Perry’s 2016 flick Boo! A Madea Halloween, claims that Tyler Perry sexually assaulted him and made unwanted advances while dangling the promise of movie roles. Rodriguez is now suing for sexual assault, sexual battery, and emotional distress, seeking damages that could rival a Hollywood blockbuster budget.
According to the lawsuit obtained by PEOPLE, it allegedly started in 2015 when a trainer at a Los Angeles gym approached Rodriguez and said, “Hey, Tyler Perry wants to meet you.” Perry then supposedly offered Rodriguez a tiny role—he ended up as “Frat Guy #10.” The screen credit was minor, but the allegations are major.
Credit: Tyler Perry Studios
The complaint details multiple alleged incidents where Perry invited Rodriguez to his home under the guise of career discussions, only to make unwanted sexual advances while drinking. In November 2018, Rodriguez claims Perry “grabbed [his] penis” despite repeated refusals, forcing Rodriguez to struggle physically to get away. Perry allegedly tried to charm him with lines like, “If you were to just be with me, I would take care of you….”
Rodriguez says that after two incidents, Perry apologized, handed him $5,000, and sent him home. Fast forward to April 2019, the lawsuit portrays Perry as increasingly aggressive: “More than ever before, it was clear that Mr. Perry would do whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted, to whomever he wanted, no matter how many times he was rejected.”
The lawsuit also claims Perry continued reaching out to Rodriguez through 2024. When he learned Rodriguez planned to file the Tyler Perry lawsuit, he allegedly texted Rodriguez, insisting he “did so much to help” him and felt “betrayed.”
Rodriguez has also spoken candidly on social media. In a December 13 Instagram video, he shared his feelings of fear and shame, explaining why he stayed silent for so long. He didn’t name Perry directly, referring instead to a “powerful director that everybody knows.” At one point, he said:
“I stayed quiet for much too long. And I just want to say I’m really sorry… it could’ve stopped with me if I would’ve said something. But I’m speaking up now.”
Tyler Perry’s Response: “Another Failed Money Grab”?
Tyler Perry’s legal team is calling the suit a “money grab.” Attorney Alex Spiro said on December 26:
“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.”
This echoes Perry’s denials in a previous case filed by Derek Dixon, another actor represented by the same attorney, Jonathan J. Delshad. Dixon’s $260 million lawsuit alleged sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation, claims Perry has repeatedly denied.
High-profile Hollywood cases like this aren’t uncommon. Similar situations include Diddy accused of grooming Terrence Howard’s niece and Beyoncé and Jay-Z suing Rihanna and ASAP Rocky, showing the pattern of celebrity lawsuits in the industry.
Why This Matters: Celebrity Sexual Assault News Hits Hard
This case highlights the power dynamics in Hollywood. When someone as influential as Tyler Perry allegedly crosses boundaries, it affects aspiring actors across the industry. Beyond the gossip, it’s about accountability and the ongoing #MeToo conversation that refuses to fade.
For those following celebrity scandal news, this lawsuit adds another chapter to Perry’s headline-making legal battles. His reputation as a powerhouse filmmaker now sits side-by-side with high-stakes legal drama, like Hollywood celebrity breakups 2025 and Usher’s alleged concert scandal. Fame, fortune, and court filings—Hollywood really has it all.
What’s Next: Tyler Perry Legal Case Updates
Tyler Perry’s legal case is still unfolding. Experts note that cases like these can move slowly, often jumping states, as Dixon’s case did from California to Georgia. That means the drama isn’t over, and every filing could shift the story.
Rodriguez seeks $77 million, but whether the court sides with him, Perry, or a settlement is still to be determined. Social media reactions are already divided, with some backing the alleged victims and others defending Perry. Either way, this is the type of Hollywood lawsuit news that dominates feeds far beyond Tinseltown.
For more background, including actor Mario Rodriguez lawsuit details and the timeline of events, you can read more on celebrity lawsuit details and entertainment industry scandal coverage.
Bottom Line: Another Hollywood Legal Drama
Hollywood scandals are never-ending. Tyler Perry sued again by Mario Rodriguez adds another layer to the ongoing story of power, ambition, and alleged misconduct in the entertainment world. Understanding the legal battles behind the glitz and glamour gives fans a fuller picture of what really goes on in Tinseltown.
Grab your popcorn—this drama is far from over. And remember, celebrity lawsuits in Hollywood can sometimes be messier than any red carpet catastrophe you’ve ever seen.
