Actor Derek Dixon detailed disturbing allegations and his decision to go public in a new interview after suing Tyler Perry for $260 million, claiming sexual harassment and abuse of power during his time on The Oval.
The actor, who played a recurring role in Perry’s BET drama, spoke to The Hollywood Reporter in his first public remarks since filing the lawsuit. “Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them,” Dixon said.
He alleges Perry created a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” by dangling promises of career opportunities in exchange for sexual favors. Dixon claims the director sent him explicit messages and also described specific incidents, including Perry allegedly groping him in a trailer and climbing into bed with him after a night of drinking.
In one instance, Dixon said he locked himself in a bathroom overnight at Perry’s home in 2021, fearing he might be raped.
Dixon Claims He Received Treats After Accusing Tyler Perry
“I was too afraid to come forward. I knew it would be awful. And I was right,” Dixon said, explaining his initial silence. “I tried to convince myself that this was part of the industry, or that I had to accept it to keep working. But eventually, I couldn’t stay silent anymore.”
He added, “I couldn’t just let him get away with this.”
Since filing the lawsuit, Dixon said he’s received threats and backlash. “This is why people, especially men, don’t come forward,” he said.
The lawsuit also claims Dixon’s character on The Oval was left in limbo as a form of pressure. He says the stress from the alleged harassment led to depression, anxiety, physical illness and a PTSD diagnosis.
Perry, through his legal team, has categorically denied all accusations, calling the lawsuit a “scam” and asserting that the claims are fabricated.
Asked whether he would consider a private settlement, Dixon said, “There are always attempts to resolve situations like this privately, but they never result in the type of change necessary to protect further victims. At the end of the day my absolute fear is that he will be able to continue doing this without any major consequences.”