Film producer and actor Tyler Perry is defending himself against a new $77 million lawsuit alleging sexual assault and coercion, while his attorney calls the claim a deliberate effort to extract money. The dispute centers on accusations from a man who appeared in Perry’s 2016 movie Boo! A Madea Halloween.
The lawsuit was filed this month in Los Angeles Superior Court. It alleges that Perry made repeated unwanted sexual advances and engaged in inappropriate conduct over several years. The plaintiff is seeking more than $77 million in damages for sexual assault, sexual battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Accuser Alleges Misconduct, Cites Contact Years Later
According to court filings, the accuser met Perry through a gym contact in 2015 and was later cast in a small role in Boo! A Madea Halloween. The complaint claims Perry invited him to his Los Angeles home under the promise of future acting opportunities and then made unwanted advances.
The lawsuit also includes text message screenshots between the plaintiff and Perry that were reportedly sent during 2024 and 2025. In those messages, the accuser expresses gratitude and discusses personal struggles. One text allegedly said, “Just know that I love you and I thank you for everything.”
Another series of messages last August show the accuser discussing his health problems and financial woes, telling Perry he was “scared” and lacked health insurance.
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, dismissed the claims in a statement to People magazine. “I said it before and I will say it again,” Spiro said. “This is nothing but a 77 million dollar money grab scam.”
Spiro also referenced an earlier lawsuit filed in June by another actor represented by the same lawyer. In that case, the plaintiff sought $260 million, making similar allegations of sexual misconduct. Spiro characterized both lawsuits as meritless.
Perry, known for his work as a filmmaker and founder of Tyler Perry Studios, has denied all wrongdoing in both cases. No criminal charges have been filed, and his team says the lawsuits will ultimately fail.
The accuser’s attorney, Jonathan J. Delshad, represents both plaintiffs in the Perry cases. Delshad has argued that the text exchanges support his client’s claims and that the litigation is an effort to achieve justice and accountability. He declined to comment further when contacted by AP.
The conflict has drawn significant attention because of Perry’s high profile in Hollywood and the differing narratives from both sides. Supporters of the accuser say continued contact with a powerful figure does not negate allegations of exploitation. Critics of the lawsuit, including Perry’s legal team, argue the timing and content of the accusations suggest financial motivation.
The lawsuit is at an early stage. Lawyers for both sides are expected to file motions in the coming weeks, with a potential jury trial timeline still uncertain.