Derek Dixon, an actor and former employee of Tyler Perry, has publicly addressed the allegations he made against the renowned filmmaker in a $260 million sexual assault lawsuit filed last month. In his first interview since the claims emerged, Dixon shared his motivations and experiences, shedding light on the troubling dynamics he alleges existed during his time working on Perry’s productions.
“I couldn’t just let him get away with this,” Dixon told *The Hollywood Reporter* on July 10. “Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them.” His comments reflect a broader concern about workplace harassment and the need for accountability in the entertainment industry.
Dixon’s lawsuit, filed on June 13 in Los Angeles, accuses Perry of quid pro quo sexual harassment, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other serious allegations. The actor, who appeared on Perry’s BET series *The Oval* starting in 2021, claims that Perry created a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” during their professional relationship.
The lawsuit details multiple incidents of alleged harassment, including claims that Perry groped Dixon and even entered his bed without consent. Dixon emphasized that his goal with the lawsuit is to pave the way for future generations of actors and creatives, ensuring they do not have to choose between their careers and their dignity.
In response to the allegations, Perry has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. His attorney, Matthew Boyd, characterized the lawsuit as a “scam,” asserting that Perry will not be intimidated by what he calls fabricated claims of harassment. Boyd stated, “This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam.”
Dixon recounted his initial meeting with Perry in September 2019 while working in Atlanta. After they exchanged phone numbers, Dixon was subsequently invited to audition for *The Oval*. However, he alleges that the first inappropriate encounter occurred in January 2022 when he stayed at Perry’s guest house. According to Dixon, Perry climbed into bed with him and began rubbing his leg, to which Dixon responded by jumping up and asserting his disinterest in any sexual advances.
Despite his clear rejection, Dixon claims that Perry continued to send him messages, which he chose not to respond to. Reflecting on the situation, Dixon expressed regret for allowing his gratitude for Perry’s professional support to overshadow his self-respect. He noted that he was initially too afraid to come forward with his allegations, fearing the backlash he would face. “I knew it would be awful. And I was right,” he admitted, highlighting the challenges many individuals face when considering whether to report harassment.
Dixon’s experience is not isolated; the entertainment industry has a long history of sexual misconduct scandals, with high-profile cases like that of Harvey Weinstein drawing attention to the urgent need for change. Dixon’s allegations against Perry underscore the ongoing struggle for safety and respect in Hollywood.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Dixon hopes that his actions will inspire others to speak out against harassment and abuse in the industry. He believes that no one should have to endure such treatment, regardless of their position or status. “Regardless of his sexual orientation or gender, he should not be speaking to any of his employees about their sexual preferences or physically assaulting them,” Dixon stated.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for both Perry and the broader entertainment community, as it raises essential questions about power dynamics, consent, and accountability in Hollywood. As Dixon continues to pursue justice, his story serves as a reminder of the importance of creating safe working environments for all artists and creatives.