Derek Dixon has broken his silence after filing a sexual harassment lawsuit against Tyler Perry, alleging unwanted advances and career manipulation during his time at Tyler Perry Studios, with Dixon expressing the emotional toll it has taken on him and calling for greater accountability in Hollywood.

Derek Dixon, the man who has accused filmmaker Tyler Perry of sexual harassment, has broken his silence following the filing of a lawsuit against Perry and his production company.

The lawsuit, filed in June 2025, has made waves in the entertainment industry, prompting public discussions about power dynamics in Hollywood and the accountability of prominent figures.

Dixon, who previously worked as a production assistant for Perry’s production company, Tyler Perry Studios, has made serious allegations against the famed director and producer.

In his lawsuit, Dixon claims that Perry subjected him to a pattern of sexual harassment during his employment from 2018 to 2020.

The accusations range from unwanted physical advances to inappropriate comments, which Dixon alleges took place on multiple occasions while working on the set of various Perry productions.

In his first public statement following the lawsuit, Dixon revealed the emotional and mental toll the alleged harassment has taken on him.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Dixon said in an exclusive interview. “I had to bury a lot of pain for a long time, and the decision to file this lawsuit wasn’t easy.

But I couldn’t keep quiet anymore. People need to understand that even someone as powerful as Tyler Perry can’t use their position to abuse others, and I want to make sure this doesn’t happen to anyone else.”

According to Dixon’s legal team, the harassment allegedly began shortly after he joined the studio.

He claims Perry made repeated sexual advances, including inappropriate touching, making lewd comments, and pressuring Dixon to meet him in private locations for “meetings” that made Dixon feel uncomfortable.

Dixon further alleges that he attempted to report the incidents to higher-ups at Tyler Perry Studios, but his complaints were ignored, and he was eventually terminated under questionable circumstances.

The lawsuit also includes claims that Perry used his position to manipulate Dixon’s career. Dixon alleges that Perry offered him career opportunities and promotional benefits in exchange for engaging in sexual activities.

Dixon claims that when he refused Perry’s advances, his work assignments were diminished, and his opportunities for career growth were taken away.

Perry, who has long been a dominant force in the entertainment world with films, TV shows, and the success of Tyler Perry Studios, has denied the allegations.

In an official statement released by his representatives, Perry said, “I am shocked and saddened by these claims. At no point did I ever behave inappropriately toward Derek Dixon or any other employee.

Tyler Perry Studios has a long-standing commitment to ensuring a safe and professional environment for all employees, and I will vigorously defend myself against these accusations.”

Despite Perry’s strong denials, the lawsuit has sparked conversations about the culture of harassment within Hollywood and the entertainment industry as a whole.

Critics argue that high-profile individuals like Perry often go unchecked due to their power and influence, making it difficult for alleged victims to speak out.

The #MeToo movement, which has exposed numerous cases of sexual harassment and assault in Hollywood, has been reignited by this lawsuit, with many on social media showing their support for Dixon’s bravery in coming forward.

Dixon’s attorney, Jane Miller, spoke about the lawsuit in a press briefing, emphasizing that this case is part of a larger effort to hold powerful individuals accountable.

“This lawsuit isn’t just about Derek Dixon; it’s about the systemic abuse that happens in Hollywood and beyond. It’s about making sure that powerful people are held responsible for their actions, regardless of how influential they are,” Miller stated.

As the legal battle continues, Dixon’s supporters have rallied around him, with many offering messages of support and encouragement.

“It takes a lot of courage to come forward and expose someone as powerful as Tyler Perry. We stand with Derek,” said a close friend of Dixon’s, who wished to remain anonymous.

The lawsuit and Dixon’s public statements have put Perry in an uncomfortable position, forcing the filmmaker to confront allegations that could tarnish his long-standing reputation.

Despite his successful career and philanthropic efforts, Perry’s name is now associated with accusations that could have far-reaching consequences for his personal and professional legacy.

The outcome of this lawsuit is still uncertain, but it has already created a significant ripple in the entertainment world.

For Dixon, the legal fight is only one part of his journey. The emotional weight of the allegations has taken a toll on his personal life, and he has expressed a desire to see a change in how the entertainment industry handles sexual harassment claims.

“I want to be a voice for others who are too afraid to speak out,” Dixon said. “I want people to know that they don’t have to suffer in silence.”

As the lawsuit continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will impact Tyler Perry’s career and the broader conversation about power, privilege, and harassment in Hollywood.

What is clear, however, is that Dixon’s decision to speak out has already made a significant impact, shining a light on the importance of accountability and the need for greater transparency in the entertainment industry.