Derek Dixon, Tyler Perry’s accuser, has opened up for the first time after filing the high-profile lawsuit. The case accuses the entertainment mogul of sexual harassment and assault. Filed on June 13 in Los Angeles Superior Court, the $260 million lawsuit marks one of the most significant legal claims against Perry to date.
Here’s what Tyler Perry accuser, Derek Dixon, said about the lawsuit and allegations.
Tyler Perry accuser shares statement amid lawsuit
Derek Dixon, who played Dale in The Oval, shared his insights for the first time after filing a lawsuit against Tyler Perry.
In an email interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Dixon conveyed that the process of coming forward with allegations against Perry has been nothing short of “terrifying.” Despite the emotional toll, Dixon said he felt compelled to speak out. “I couldn’t just let him get away with this,” he said.
Dixon then described meeting Perry for the first time in September 2019. It was during the launch of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. At the time, Dixon was working as an event coordinator for Legendary Events. Perry allegedly approached him during the event and asked him to get on stage to test the lighting. He then asked Dixon if he was an actor. After Dixon admitted he wasn’t actively acting, Perry replied, “Yes, you are. I can tell.” The next day, Perry began texting him, allegedly initiating a deeper connection. Dixon alleges that what followed was a pattern of manipulation and inappropriate advances.
Since filing the lawsuit, the Tyler Perry accuser says he’s received mixed reactions. This ranges from online harassment to heartfelt messages of support, including similar stories from others who claim to have had uncomfortable encounters with Perry. Dixon pointed out that these reactions are part of why many men choose not to come forward.
“There are always attempts to resolve situations like this privately, but they never result in the type of change necessary… At the end of the day, my absolute fear is that he will be able to continue doing this without any major consequences, ” he said.
In response, Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, strongly denied the allegations. “Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail,” Boyd said in a statement to People, calling the lawsuit a “scam.”
Dixon is demanding a jury trial and $260 million in damages.
Originally reported by Devanshi Basu on ComingSoon.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, support is available. Call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org for confidential assistance
