Derek Dixon drops $260M lawsuit on Tyler Perry

When Derek Dixon, a supporting actor from The Oval, filed a $260 million lawsuit against Tyler Perry, it caused a huge reaction in Hollywood. As news spreads about the Tyler Perry lawsuit and Perry denies the claims, people are left wondering about power, trust, and responsibility in the entertainment world.

Background of the Allegations

On June 13, 2025, Derek Dixon, who played the character “Dale” on Tyler Perry’s popular show The Oval, filed a lawsuit. He says that Tyler Perry, a famous actor, director, and producer, sexually harassed and assaulted him. Derek claims that Perry used his power to pressure him and tried to control his career. These serious accusations could lead to a big legal fight.

Inside the claim

Dixon’s lawsuit says that Tyler Perry used his power on The Oval to take advantage of him. He claims Perry promised him roles and creative chances, but at the same time made unwanted sexual moves. When Dixon said no, Perry punished him for it. The lawsuit says Perry touched him inappropriately without permission—this happened in places like studio offices and Perry’s home.

According to The Verge, Dixon was “subjected to growing sexual harassment, assault, and battery,” and Perry “forced himself on Dixon.” These things reportedly happened during work-related situations, where Perry had full control over Dixon’s career.

Who is Derek Dixon?

Derek Dixon, who appeared in 85 episodes of The Oval, initially caught Perry’s eye at a 2019 event hosted by Tyler Perry. He later landed a role on another of Perry’s projects, Ruthless, before securing his more prominent character on The Oval.

Tyler Perry Response

Tyler Perry strongly denies all the accusations. His lawyer, Matthew Boyd, called the lawsuit a “fake scam” and a “shakedown,” saying it was made up just to get money. They believe the case will be thrown out. Perry also said the claims are false and stressed that he has worked hard to build a respected name in the industry. According to ABC News, Perry’s response was clear and firm—he says the lawsuit has no truth to it.

Legal and Cultural Impact

The lawsuit includes ten legal claims under California law, such as sexual battery, gender-based violence at work, emotional stress, and punishment money.

Dixon is asking for $260 million, which includes extra money to punish Perry if he's found guilty. This case could hurt Perry’s image and career. It also connects to the larger #MeToo movement, showing that even powerful Black figures in Hollywood can face serious accusations.

Echoes from the Past: Christian Keyes

The controversy has also brought back attention to actor Christian Keyes. In late 2023, he went on Instagram Live and said that a “powerful man” tried to take advantage of him in a setting similar to something from Tyler Perry’s world. He didn’t say any names, but many people now see a link between his story and Derek Dixon’s lawsuit.

Why This Matters:

The Oval is one of Tyler Perry’s most popular shows on BET, so these claims hit directly at his success.

This case is also important because it shows one powerful Black man calling out another, which is rare in Hollywood and adds to the larger conversation about race, power, and responsibility.

Since Perry is known as a Christian, a family-friendly public figure, and a generous giver, these accusations are especially shocking.

What Next

The legal case is still at the beginning stage. Next, both sides will collect evidence, like interviews, messages, texts, and witness statements.

Tyler Perry will likely try to get the case dismissed by showing it has no real proof. On the other hand, Derek Dixon will try to build a strong case using documents and witness support to prove his claims.

Quick Facts:

• The Oval started in October 2019 and has had six seasons. Derek Dixon appeared in several episodes.

• Dixon first met Tyler Perry in 2019. His career started to grow after that, but he says the bad behavior began not long after they met.

• Tyler Perry, now 55, is a big name in the media world and is famous for his Madea movies. This lawsuit now puts a serious question mark on his reputation.

Summary

Derek Dixon, an actor from The Oval, is asking for $260 million in a lawsuit, saying Tyler Perry sexually harassed and assaulted him. He claims Perry used his power to pressure him, with some incidents happening at studios and even at Perry’s home.

Tyler Perry strongly denies everything and calls the lawsuit a “shakedown” meant to get money.

As the case moves forward, it brings attention to issues of power abuse and male-on-male misconduct in Hollywood, pushing for more honesty and accountability.