AceShowbiz - Tyler Perry is facing a $77 million lawsuit from Mario Rodriguez, who accuses the filmmaker and actor of sexual assault and sexual battery. Rodriguez has also claimed that Perry refused to answer certain deposition questions unless his legal team agreed not to question Perry about his sexual attraction to men.

Rodriguez alleges that Perry assaulted him during private encounters, including one that took place at Perry’s home in 2018. The lawsuit includes multiple allegations of unwanted sexual conduct. Perry denies all accusations made by Rodriguez. This legal battle is unfolding alongside a separate lawsuit against Perry from actor Derek Dixon, who has accused him of sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation—claims Perry also denies.

In response to the deposition dispute, Perry’s attorney has denied that Perry refused to appear for questioning or rejected any categories of inquiry. Perry’s legal team plans to seek sanctions against Rodriguez following the motion to impose penalties on Perry for allegedly failing to appear at a deposition. Meanwhile, Rodriguez’s side maintains that questions regarding Perry’s sexual orientation are relevant given the nature of the allegations and insists the court address this issue.

Tyler Perry is best known for his portrayal of Mable “Madea” Simmons, a role he originated in Diary of a Mad Black Woman and several other films, including Madea's Family Reunion and I Can Do Bad All by Myself. Over his career, Perry has amassed more than 35 film credits and received multiple award nominations, including NAACP Image Award nods and Razzie Award mentions for his work in the Madea franchise. Rodriguez claims he first met Perry in 2015 at a gym and subsequently secured a role in Perry’s film Boo! A Madea Halloween.

This lawsuit marks another serious challenge to Perry’s public image and career. The allegations and legal disputes raise questions about accountability and transparency in high-profile cases involving powerful entertainment figures. The outcome could have significant implications for Perry’s professional standing and the broader conversation about misconduct in the industry.