Case Intel
- A second actor has sued Tyler Perry in California state court, alleging sexual assault and battery spanning several years at Perry’s Los Angeles home.
- The complaint seeks at least $77 million and names Lionsgate for allegedly turning a blind eye to misconduct tied to Boo! A Madea Halloween.
- Perry’s counsel has categorically denied the allegations, calling the suit a “failed money grab.”
The Allegations at Issue
According to a civil complaint filed Thursday in California state court, actor and model Mario Rodriguez alleges that Perry subjected him to repeated unwanted sexual advances beginning after Rodriguez was cast in Boo! A Madea Halloween. The lawsuit asserts multiple incidents between 2014 and 2019, including allegations of groping, sexual battery, and coercive statements tied to promises of career advancement.
Rodriguez claims he was first contacted through a gym trainer at Equinox in Los Angeles, who allegedly said Perry wanted his number to discuss an acting role. After auditioning and accepting a role in Boo! A Madea Halloween, Rodriguez alleges he was invited to Perry’s Los Angeles home, where Perry allegedly touched him without consent while suggesting he could “take care of” him financially and professionally.
The complaint further alleges that after filming concluded, Perry continued to contact Rodriguez about potential future projects, including discussions at Perry’s home and a dinner meeting at Mastro’s Steakhouse related to The Oval. One alleged 2018 encounter describes Perry “tightly hugging” Rodriguez, attempting to unbuckle his pants, and grabbing his genitals. Rodriguez claims Perry later apologized and gave him $5,000.
Another alleged incident in 2019 describes Perry placing Rodriguez’s hand on Perry’s genitals and again offering financial security in exchange for a relationship, followed by an additional $5,000 payment after Rodriguez declined.
