Tyler Perry, the writer, director, actor and entertainment mogul, is facing a $77 million sexual assault lawsuit. President Mario Rodriguez filed the suit. He alleges that Perry used his Hollywood power to make unwanted sexual advances to him time and time again over the course of several years. Incidents described in the lawsuit reportedly took place in 2016, 2018, and 2019, including one disturbing encounter in which Perry allegedly “put his hands on Mr. Rodriguez’s legs and began rubbing his inner thigh right next to his penis.”
Among many claims, Rodriguez claims that Perry invited him over to his house. He now alleges that it was all just a ruse to talk about a potential acting role. It is further claimed that during this visit, when they were watching a movie, Perry made sexual advances towards Rodriguez. As a case example, the lawsuit describes what happened to Rodriguez when he asked to use the restroom. In spite of this, Perry reportedly pressed to keep him on.
Perry’s net worth is believed to be about $1.4 billion, thanks in part to his profitable Madea franchise and Perry’s Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios. The new lawsuit comes on the heels of a similar case in which another man accused Perry of sexual misconduct. Both plaintiffs are represented by the same attorney, Jonathan Delshad, who has already challenged arguments made by Perry’s legal counsel.
The allegations extend beyond private encounters. In 2014, Rodriguez alleges that a trainer at an Equinox gym approached him and… The trainer further stated that Perry wished for him to provide his phone number for future acting roles. Later, Perry allegedly encouraged Rodriguez to audition for “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” stating, “I’m not a bad person to know and have in your corner.”
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, has firmly rejected those allegations. He called the lawsuit the latest effort by the same attorney to shake down Perry for cash. This attorney had lost in court previously.
“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
That newest lawsuit has shifted from California to Georgia, where its legal contours were originally formally drawn. It features troubling allegations of sexual battery and assault that took place at Perry’s Los Angeles home.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, we’ve known Perry as the philanthropic activist. He notably offered Prince Harry and Meghan Markle a home in Los Angeles when they left the UK in 2020.
Therefore, the fate of this crucial legal fight remains uncertain. Because precedent is heavily stacked against them, both parties are preparing for what could be a long court battle.