Tyler Perry is accused of s*xual assault by an aspiring actor who appeared in “Boo! A Madea Halloween” in 2016.
Mario Rodriguez, who had a minor role in the movie, is suing Tyler for $77 million.
He is also suing Lionsgate, which distributed the movie, alleging that Lionsgate ignored Tyler’s behavior.
Mario is being represented by the same lawyer who represented aspiring actor Derek Dixon in a similar complaint against the filmmaker.
READ ALSO: Tyler Perry Hit with $260 Million Assault Lawsuit by ‘The Oval’ Actor
Tyler’s attorney, Alex Spiro, says the latest lawsuit is “a failed money grab.”
In his lawsuit, obtained by PEOPLE, Mario (pictured) claims Tyler made unwanted s*xual advances that lasted for several years.
Mario claims he was first approached in 2014 by a trainer at an Equinox gym. The trainer said Tyler wanted Mario’s phone number to talk to him about an acting role.
After Mario was cast in the film, Tyler allegedly invited him to his home where Mario claims he was touched inappropriately. Mario claims he struggled with Tyler to get away and he stated that Tyler told him to “let it happen” and he would be “taken care of.”
The incidents allegedly occurred between 2014 and 2019. In one incident, Mario claims Tyler tried to unbuckle his pants, and in another incident, Tyler allegedly placed Mario’s hand on his genitals.
Mario claims Tyler paid him $5,000 on several occasions following the alleged incidents. Despite these incidents, Mario continued to visit Tyler’s home.
When Tyler found out that Mario planned to file a lawsuit, he contacted the aspiring actor by text message. Tyler allegedly reminded Mario of all he had done to help him and that he felt betrayed.
Mario discussed his allegations in a viral video that was viewed over 1 million times. He didn’t name Tyler, but some people guessed Tyler’s name in the comments.
“I stayed quiet for much too long,” Mario said in the video. “But I’m speaking up now.”
Earlier this year, aspiring actor Derek Dixon, who appeared in “The Oval,” sued Tyler for s*xual assault. He demanded $260 million in punitive damages. However, a California judge granted Tyler’s motion to move the lawsuit to Georgia.
Derek’s lawsuit is expected to be dismissed in Georgia because the statute of limitations has expired.
Mario’s case will likely also be thrown out for filing late.
In a statement to Variety, Tyler’s attorney, Alex Spiro, said, “Having recently failed in another matter against Mr. Perry, the very same lawyer has now made yet another demand from more than a decade ago which will also be a failed money grab.”
