Entertainment mogul Tyler Perry has been named in a lawsuit filed by actor Derek Dixon, who alleges he was sexually harassed and assaulted during his time working on Perry’s television drama The Oval. The legal complaint was filed in Los Angeles County and centers on allegations against a male producer affiliated with the show.
Dixon claims he endured repeated instances of unwanted sexual contact and advances while working on the series. The suit states that when Dixon attempted to report the alleged misconduct to higher authorities at Tyler Perry Studios and the network involved, no meaningful action was taken. The filing further alleges that Dixon’s role on the show was later diminished and ultimately terminated in retaliation for his complaints.
Although Perry himself is not accused of direct misconduct, he is named as a defendant along with Tyler Perry Studios and the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), which airs The Oval. The suit seeks damages for emotional distress, lost wages, and reputational harm.
A representative for Perry has denied the allegations and said the studio is reviewing the matter.
The case is ongoing and no rulings or judgments have been made at this time.
Sources: USA Today, NBC News, TMZ