LOS ANGELES – In a developing case, text messages have surfaced revealing that actor Mario Rodriguez, known for his role in “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” continued to communicate with filmmaker Tyler Perry long after the timeframe in which Rodriguez alleges the filmmaker assaulted him.

Rodriguez’s recent lawsuit, filed in California, claims that Perry sexually assaulted him during a series of encounters from 2014 to 2019. According to the lawsuit, Rodriguez ceased all contact with Perry in 2019. However, text message exchanges obtained by The Associated Press suggest otherwise, showing that Rodriguez reached out to Perry on Thanksgiving 2024 and again on August 31, 2025, expressing sentiments of gratitude, friendship, and financial hardship.

One Thanksgiving message reveals Rodriguez thanking Perry for his support during challenging times, stating he appreciated him “to the moon.” In another communication dated August 31, Rodriguez discussed his ongoing health issues, lack of insurance, and financial struggles, conveying a sense of fear and desperation.

The text messages were shared with the AP by a source familiar with the situation, who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the case and lack of authorization to speak publicly on the matter.

Tyler Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, has publicly refuted Rodriguez’s claims, maintaining Perry’s innocence in the face of these allegations.

“I said it before and I will say it again,” Spiro said in a statement. “This is nothing but a $77 million money grab scam.”

Rodriguez’s lawsuit seeks at least $77 million in damages and accuses Perry of sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Perry has denied the allegations.

The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly as Rodriguez has.

The lawsuit follows a separate case filed in June by actor Derek Dixon, who alleged Perry groped him while Dixon worked on Perry’s television series “The Oval” and “Ruthless.” That lawsuit was originally filed in California state court and later moved to federal court in Georgia, where Perry is based. Perry also has denied Dixon’s allegations.

AP reached out to Rodriguez’s attorney, Jonathan Delshad, seeking comment on the text messages, but did not receive a response. Delshad also represents Dixon.