The complaint begins, “This case arises from a sustained pattern of workplace sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation perpetrated by Tyler Perry… against Plaintiff Derek Dixon” (p.2, ¶three).

Dixon claims that while working at an event in 2019, Perry first showed interest in him. Dixon was allegedly courted by Perry, who offered him playing parts and creative cooperation. Perry wrote, “Be careful hanging around me!!” in one text. I cause dreamers to dream bigger dreams! (p. 11, ¶56).

Dixon claimed that what followed was a toxic behavior where Perry would coerce Dixon into unwelcome physical encounters by using his power over casting and compensation.

Perry allegedly threatened to have Dixon’s character removed from the program if he didn’t keep him “happy.” The complaint claims that the fact that Dixon’s character was ultimately shot four times on “The Oval” was utilized as leverage (p.6, ¶18).

Numerous unsettling allegations of sexual assault and battery are included in the complaint. Perry allegedly touched Dixon without permission in one of those incidents. In another, he allegedly touched Dixon’s buttocks violently after recording and pinned him against a wall (p.21, ¶119). In a third instance, which is described in paragraphs 138–140 (pp. 26–27), Perry is accused of grabbing Dixon and removing his underwear while ignoring Dixon’s verbal objections.

According to the lawsuit, Perry said things like, “Calm down,” in response to Dixon’s rejection. He then blamed testosterone supplements for his actions (p.28, ¶145) and said, “I’m not going to hurt you” (p.27, ¶140).

Dixon asserts that after each assault, Perry would apologize and promise increased compensation or offer to produce Dixon’s pilot show, “Losing It.” According to the complaint, these promises were ultimately hollow and served to prolong Dixon’s silence while Perry maintained control (pp.28-30, ¶¶146-165).

According to the lawsuit, Perry persisted in calling, messaging, and trying to justify or normalize the assaults even after Dixon relocated to California. Dixon claims that he had physical signs of trauma and that a doctor diagnosed him with PTSD (p.25, ¶132).

The lawsuit levels causes of action, including: Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment (Gov. Code §12940(j)), Workplace Harassment and Gender Violence (CC §52.4), Violation of California’s Ralph Act, Sexual Assault and Battery (CC §340.16, CC §1708.5), Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress and Retaliation

Notably, the plaintiff argues the case qualifies under California’s Sexual Abuse and Cover Up Accountability Act (AB 2777), reviving otherwise time-barred claims (p.10, ¶42).