
The spotlight is back on Tyler Perry, but this time it's for reasons he'd rather avoid. Derek Dixon, who has accused the famed director of sexual assault and harassment, sat down with Linsey Davis on ABC News to share his side of the story. The interview dives into the alleged incident that Dixon claims took place in 2020.
In a candid recount, Dixon explained how what he thought would be a friendly visit to Perry's Atlanta home turned into something entirely different. "I got into bed, and then I noticed that he climbed into bed with me as well and started rubbing my leg, and I jumped up out of bed," Dixon shared.
"Unless someone has been through something where they have their control over their bodies taken away, you don't really understand the kind of feelings that you get in that moment," Dixon expressed, emphasizing the emotional impact of the alleged encounter.
Dixon's accusations aren't just words – they're now part of a legal battle. In June, he filed a lawsuit against Perry, seeking a whopping $260 million in damages. The lawsuit includes claims of quid pro quo, workplace sexual harassment, and sexual assault and battery.
According to court documents, the allegations stem from a 2020 visit to Perry's home, where Dixon claims he became intoxicated and fell asleep in a guest room. Dixon alleges that Perry joined him in bed and began making unwanted advances. Despite Dixon's rejection, Perry supposedly persisted, leading to a series of uncomfortable interactions.
Dixon's allegations didn't stop at that night. After being cast in "The Oval," Dixon alleges that Perry sent him sexually suggestive text messages and initiated inappropriate conversations. Dixon claims that Perry even grabbed him by the throat during one encounter, questioning his excitement.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Perry has firmly denied them, labeling the lawsuit a "scam." As this legal saga unfolds, Dixon hopes his case will shed light on the struggles many face in the entertainment industry. "Everyone deserves to go to work and do their job without their boss trying to have sex with them," Dixon told The Hollywood Reporter.
As the interview airs tonight on ABC News Live PRIME, viewers will get a closer look at Dixon's perspective. His story is part of a larger conversation about power dynamics and harassment in Hollywood – a conversation that Dixon hopes will lead to lasting change.
The lawsuit and its implications continue to develop, with both parties standing firm in their positions. With a legal battle of this magnitude, it's clear that this story is far from over.