Tyler Perry is forcefully denying allegations that he refused to sit for a deposition to avoid questions about his sexuality. The dispute marks the latest development in an ongoing legal battle between the filmmaker and actor Mario Rodriguez, who has accused Perry of sexual assault and battery. Perry has denied all allegations against him.
New court filings challenge Rodriguez’s request for sanctions against Perry. Rodriguez’s legal team argued Perry delayed a deposition because he objected to questions regarding his sexual orientation. Perry’s attorneys rejected that claim. They contend he already agreed to appear for a deposition and never sought to avoid questioning altogether.
The latest filings stem from Rodriguez’s lawsuit, which alleges Perry used his influence in Hollywood to make unwanted sexual advances after the two met through professional opportunities. Rodriguez is seeking millions in damages. Perry has consistently maintained the allegations are false and motivated by financial gain.
Perry Calls Allegations Misleading
According to court documents, Perry’s attorneys argue Rodriguez’s motion presents an inaccurate picture of the discovery process. They say Perry committed to a deposition date and has not refused to testify.
The filings also dispute claims that Perry demanded immunity from questions about his sexuality. Instead, his attorneys argue those questions are irrelevant to the legal claims at issue.
Perry’s legal team stated, “Mr. Perry has never refused to appear for his deposition.”
The filing continued, “He is not embarrassed by his sexual orientation, whatever anyone assumes it may be.”
Attorneys further argued that questions regarding Perry’s private life rely on stereotypes rather than facts connected to the lawsuit. They maintain the discovery request improperly attempts to pressure Perry into resolving the case outside of court.
Perry’s attorneys also allege Rodriguez previously sought a multimillion-dollar settlement before escalating the discovery dispute. They claim the sanctions motion is another effort to increase pressure during ongoing litigation. Rodriguez’s legal team disputes that characterization.
Lawsuit Continues as Discovery Battle Grows
Rodriguez’s attorney previously told the court that repeated efforts were made to schedule Perry’s deposition beginning in April. Court filings argued that earlier scheduling commitments did not result in testimony and asked the judge to compel Perry’s appearance.
The latest disagreement centers on the scope of questioning rather than whether Perry will ultimately testify. The court has not issued a final ruling on Rodriguez’s request for sanctions.
The legal dispute is one of two separate sexual misconduct lawsuits Perry currently faces. Another lawsuit, filed by actor Derek Dixon, contains similar allegations involving professional relationships. Perry has denied those claims as well. His attorneys have described both lawsuits as meritless and part of an effort to extract large financial settlements.
No findings of liability have been made in either case. Both lawsuits remain active as discovery continues.
The court’s eventual ruling on the deposition dispute could shape the next phase of Rodriguez’s lawsuit. Regardless of that outcome, the broader legal claims remain unresolved.