Actor Derek Dixon, known for his role in The Oval, has come forward with serious allegations against entertainment mogul Tyler Perry, filing a $260 million sexual harassment and assault lawsuit. Dixon accuses Perry of using his industry power to repeatedly exploit and harass him over their professional relationship.
In a detailed interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Dixon described the ordeal as “terrifying,” stating, “Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them.”
Dixon, who appeared in 85 episodes of The Oval between 2021 and 2025, alleges multiple incidents, including Perry pinning him against a wall and groping him, as well as entering his bed without consent. Despite clear rejections, Perry reportedly made persistent sexual advances via text messages and in person.
One incident in January 2020 allegedly took place at Perry’s Georgia home. After being invited to the guest house, Dixon says Perry climbed into bed with him and began touching his thigh. Dixon immediately rejected Perry’s advances.
Another accusation involves a set trailer, where Perry reportedly offered drinks, asked about Dixon’s attraction to him, then hugged Dixon, pushed him against a wall, and groped him.
Dixon portrays Perry’s behavior as a calculated abuse of power, noting Perry’s personal texts often crossed professional boundaries, asking for pictures and commenting on Dixon’s body.
The emotional toll on Dixon has been profound, leading to insomnia and a prescription for Zoloft. Dixon felt trapped, fearing career repercussions if he refused Perry’s advances or spoke out.
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In June 2024, Dixon filed a formal sexual harassment complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and quit The Oval, forfeiting nearly $400,000 in pay. The complaint is currently pending.
Additionally, Dixon alleges Perry used the promise of producing a comedy pilot, Losing It, as leverage to control him. Although filmed in 2022, Perry’s contract reportedly prevented the pilot from being sold or shopped for two years, keeping Dixon dependent.
Tyler Perry’s lawyer, Matthew Boyd, denied all claims, calling them “fabricated” and dismissing Dixon as someone attempting a scam.
Despite anticipating backlash, Dixon insists on the importance of speaking out. Since going public, he has received both support and threats, highlighting why many victims, especially men, remain silent.
Dixon also emphasized that private attempts to resolve the issue failed to bring the necessary change to protect others.
