Actor Speaks Out About Allegations Against Tyler Perry

Since actor Derek Dixon filed a significant lawsuit against entertainment executive Tyler Perry, alleging sexual harassment and assault, the situation has remained relatively quiet. However, Dixon recently shared his perspective, providing more details about his accusations against the creator of the popular Madea franchise.

In a comprehensive interview, Dixon described the decision to publicly file his 260 million dollar lawsuit as a frightening experience. Nonetheless, he felt compelled to speak out, stating that he could not allow Perry to evade responsibility for his alleged actions.

Dixon’s legal claim alleges that Perry made numerous sexual advances toward him and suggests a pattern of exploitation of male performers working on Perry’s productions.

Dixon, who appeared in 85 episodes of Perry’s television series The Oval (2021-2025), recounted his initial meeting with Perry in 2019 during an event in Atlanta. He was working as an event coordinator when Perry, according to Dixon, selected him to assist with stage lighting. This led to a conversation about Dixon’s acting aspirations, resulting in an exchange of contact information.

The next day, Perry contacted Dixon, inquiring about his career goals. This interaction led to an audition for Ruthless, a spin-off of The Oval. Dixon secured a minor role, with Perry suggesting the possibility of expanded screen time. Before this expansion occurred, Dixon alleges that Perry’s behavior turned unprofessional, surprising Dixon, an openly gay man, as he was unaware of Perry’s alleged interest in men or his pursuit of a sexual relationship. It’s important to note that Perry publicly ended his relationship with his longtime girlfriend, Gelila Bekele, in December 2020.

Dixon’s lawsuit details an incident in January 2020 where Perry invited him to his home. After consuming alcohol, Perry allegedly insisted Dixon was too intoxicated to drive, encouraging him to stay in the guest house. According to Dixon, Perry later entered Dixon’s bed and touched him inappropriately. Dixon immediately reacted, making it clear he wasn’t interested.

Following this incident, Dixon claims Perry persistently contacted him daily, even when he ignored the attempts. After days of silence, Dixon states that Perry offered to expand Dixon’s role on The Oval. Although Dixon believed his character would be killed off in Ruthless after being shot, Perry indicated the character could survive, adding a comment Dixon interpreted as a veiled threat.

After securing the recurring role on The Oval, Dixon alleges that Perry’s communications became even more frequent and inappropriate, often involving requests for photos. When production halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Perry asked Dixon to write a comedy pilot, which Perry reportedly enjoyed. However, despite periods of appropriate behavior, Dixon claims the inappropriate messages persisted, including sexually suggestive remarks.

Dixon describes an escalation of alleged harassment, recounting an incident where he felt he was on the verge of being raped at Perry’s residence. He alleges Perry physically assaulted him after requesting a hug. Dixon says he resisted, but Perry allegedly persisted until Dixon used a strategy to stop the encounter.

In June 2024, Dixon filed a sexual harassment complaint and resigned from The Oval, forfeiting his potential earnings for the final season. He prioritized his dignity over the financial compensation. While acknowledging mixed reactions to his lawsuit, including online threats, Dixon also mentioned speaking to others with similar experiences.

Dixon’s statement highlights the challenges faced by individuals, particularly men, in coming forward with sexual harassment claims.