Tyler Perry Lawsuit Sparks Questions: What is Sexual Harassment in Hollywood?
- Payton Employment Law
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 15
The recent lawsuit filed against Tyler Perry by actor Derek Dixon has garnered national attention. According to the Los Angeles Times, Dixon alleges Perry used his position of power to “create a coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” during their work on television projects, including The Oval, with incidents dating back to 2019 and involving unwanted advances, groping, and retaliation in exchange for career opportunities. Similar reporting by Vulture notes claims of assault, explicit texts pressuring Dixon, and job threats tied to compliance.
While the case is still developing, it has sparked an important conversation: What happens when powerful figures use their influence to exploit others—and what can victims do to protect themselves?
What Counts as Sexual Harassment Under the Law?
Under California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, every worker is protected from sexual harassment, regardless of their industry or employer’s power. Sexual harassment includes:
Unwanted sexual advancesAny unwelcome requests for dates, sexual favors, or intimate contact. (Cal. Gov. Code § 12940(j)(1); 42 U.S.C. § 2000e-2(a)); Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson, 477 U.S. 57 (1986))
Quid pro quo harassmentWhere employment decisions—such as hiring, promotions, or continued employment—are conditioned on submission to sexual conduct. For example, “If you do this for me, I’ll give you a raise or a role.” (Cal. Gov. Code § 12940(j); 29 C.F.R. § 1604.11(a)(2))
Unwelcome touching or sexual commentsPhysical contact such as hugging, kissing, or groping, as well as verbal conduct including sexual jokes or remarks. (Cal. Gov. Code § 12940(j); Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson, 477 U.S. 57 (1986))
Retaliation for refusing advances or reporting misconductIt is unlawful to penalize an employee for rejecting sexual advances or for filing a complaint about harassment. (Cal. Gov. Code § 12940(h); 42 U.S.C. § 2000e-3(a))
Sexual Harassment Takes Two Forms – Know Them Both
This case highlights allegations of quid pro quo harassment, where tangible job benefits are linked to sexual favors. Importantly, even a single incident of quid pro quo harassment is sufficient to establish liability under both California and federal law. EEOC Guidelines (29 C.F.R. § 1604.11(a)); Meritor Savings Bank v. Vinson, 477 U.S. 57 (1986))
Alternatively, hostile work environment harassment occurs when pervasive or severe sexual behavior, comments, or conduct create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment that interferes with an employee’s ability to perform their job. (Cal. Gov. Code § 12940(j)
Standing Up to Hollywood Power Players
Sexual harassment is never the victim’s fault. No one should have to choose between their career and their dignity or safety. Too often in the entertainment industry, powerful individuals exploit their status to silence victims through fear, retaliation, or threats to their livelihoods.
At Payton Employment Law, PC, we believe every worker deserves a safe, respectful, and fair workplace—regardless of the fame, money, or influence of those who harass them.
Our firm has a proven record of fighting for the working class of Hollywood and beyond.
We have stood up to major entertainment corporations and celebrities to protect the rights of reality television stars, actors, production crew members, and industry professionals who keep projects running but are too often subjected to exploitation and misconduct.
Sexual harassment is illegal, no matter how powerful the harasser is. If you are experiencing harassment or retaliation in the entertainment industry, you do not have to remain silent. Payton Employment Law, PC is here to listen, fight, and help you assert your rights—because your safety, dignity, and career matter.
Attorney Advertisement: The information provided in this blog post does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. All content and information are for general informational purposes only. Reading this blog post does not create or constitute an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only created by written agreement.
- Written by Attorneys Catherine James, Esq. and Chantal Payton, Esq.
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¹ Tyler Perry sued for sexual harassment and assault by actor on ‘The Oval.’ June 18, 2025. https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-06-18/tyler-perry-sued-sexual-harassment-actor-the-oval; Who Is Derek Dixon? All About 'The Oval' Actor Who Accused Tyler Perry of Sexual Harassment and Assault. June 19, 2025. https://people.com/who-is-derek-dixon-tyler-perry-11757215
² Tyler Perry’s $260 Million Sexual Assault Lawsuit Explained. June 18, 2025. https://www.vulture.com/article/tyler-perrys-sexual-assault-lawsuit-derek-dixon.html