CALIFORNIA, United States—Renowned American actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry is reportedly being sued by actor Derek Dixon, who starred in Tyler Perry’s The Oval and Ruthless, for US$260 million in connection with allegations of sexual harassment, assault and retaliation.

According to a report from People, the complaint, which was filed on Friday, June 13, in Los Angeles, accused Perry of creating a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” with Dixon while he was starring on both shows.

People further reported that Dixon has accused the filmmaker of “initially promising him career advancement and creative opportunities, such as producing his pilot and casting him in his show, only to subject him to escalating sexual harassment, assault and battery, and professional retaliation when Mr Dixon did not reciprocate Mr Perry’s unwanted advances.”

Dixon has also claimed that he was sexually assaulted by Perry at his home in 2020. He added that Perry later offered him a series regular role on The Oval the following month. Dixon played the character Dale in the series.

The filmmaker’s attorney is however rejecting the claims made by Dixon, describing the complaint as a scam.

The complainant is reportedly requesting a jury trial and damages of US$260 million.