Tyler Perry Accused of Sexual Assault in Second Lawsuit by Model Mario Rodriguez

Second Lawsuit Filed Against Tyler Perry

• 🎯 A second lawsuit has been filed against Tyler Perry by model and actor Mario Rodriguez, accusing him of sexual assault and a pattern of manipulation.
• ⚖️ The lawsuit, filed on Christmas Day 2025, also names Lionsgate, alleging the studio enabled Perry's behavior.
• 🗣️ Rodriguez states he remained silent for too long and apologizes for not speaking up sooner, potentially saving others.

Allegations of Grooming and Manipulation

• 💡 Rodriguez claims Perry used the promise of acting roles and a Hollywood career to groom him, making unwanted advances and touching.
• 🧠 The complaint details allegations of Perry prying into Rodriguez's past traumas, escalating physical contact, and making explicit propositions.
• 🎬 Perry allegedly reenacted a famous Good Will Hunting therapy scene to target Rodriguez's past trauma, telling him "it's not your fault."

Specific Incidents and Escalation

• 🏠 Rodriguez alleges Perry asked him to leave his phone in the kitchen, stating "there are cameras everywhere and they're always listening."
• 📱 During a visit to Perry's home, Rodriguez claims Perry rubbed his shoulders, chest, and inner thigh, and persistently urged him to "just relax."
• 💰 After Rodriguez refused advances, he claims Perry offered him $5,000 on two separate occasions, allegedly as an apology and to keep him quiet.

Career Impact and Legal Claims

• 🚫 Rodriguez claims that after he continually rejected Perry's advances, all acting roles dried up, and he was not hired for future projects.
• 📈 The lawsuit includes alleged text messages from Perry expressing frustration and demanding contact from Rodriguez.
• 💼 The complaint outlines four legal claims: sexual assault, sexual battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress against Perry, and negligent retention against Lionsgate.

Legal and Public Response

• 🗣️ Tyler Perry's defense team, led by Alex Spiro, issued a categorical denial, calling the lawsuit a "failed money grab" referencing a previous case.
• ⚖️ The lawsuit seeks damages totaling $77 million, citing PTSD, psychological injuries, and damage to professional reputation.
• ❓ The case hinges on credibility, with Rodriguez's word against Perry's, and the explanation of his continued contact with Perry needing to be addressed with a jury.