This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.
Editor’s Note: The following contains descriptions of sexual assault that some readers may find disturbing
In his first public interview since filing a $260 million lawsuit against entertainment mogul Tyler Perry, actor Derek Dixon is opening up about what he describes as a “terrifying” ordeal. The Oval star has accused the Madea creator of repeated sexual harassment and assault over the course of their professional relationship, alleging that Perry used his power in the industry to exploit him and others.
“I couldn’t just let him get away with this,” Dixon told The Hollywood Reporter in a written interview. “Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them.”
Dixon, who appeared in 85 episodes of The Oval between 2021 and 2025, filed the lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court on June 13. Among the most serious claims: Perry allegedly pinned Dixon against a wall and groped him, and in a separate incident, entered his bed without consent. Dixon accuses Perry of making persistent sexual advances via text and in person, despite clear rejections.
In one alleged incident from January 2020, Dixon says he was invited to Perry’s Georgia home. After drinking together, Perry told him to stay in the guest house. Later that night, Dixon claims, Perry climbed into bed with him and began touching his thigh. “I immediately jumped out of the bed and said, ‘I’m not that sexual,’” Dixon said. “I thought my reaction made it clear I was not interested.”
This article covers a developing story. Continue to check back with us as we will be adding more information as it becomes available.