A trail of text messages is casting new light on a lawsuit accusing filmmaker Tyler Perry of sexual assault, revealing that Perry and actor Mario Rodriguez stayed in touch long after Rodriguez says their relationship ended.
Rodriguez, who appeared in “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” filed suit last week in California, alleging Perry sexually assaulted him during encounters spanning 2014 to 2019. The complaint states Rodriguez cut off contact in 2019, though Perry occasionally reached out afterward. But screenshots obtained by The Associated Press late Sunday show Rodriguez initiating contact as recently as Thanksgiving 2024 and again on Aug. 31, 2025, with messages marked by gratitude, familiarity and pleas amid financial strain.
The messages, like footprints in wet cement, appear to linger well beyond the timeline laid out in the complaint.
Allegations and Damages Sought
Rodriguez is seeking at least $77 million in damages, accusing Perry of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit also names Lionsgate, the studio that distributed the 2016 film, alleging it failed to act despite warning signs tied to Perry’s alleged conduct.
Perry has denied all allegations.
“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,” said Alex Spiro, an attorney for Perry, in a statement Friday provided to CBS News. Spiro reiterated to the AP: “This is nothing but a $77 million money grab scam.”
Lionsgate did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
