*Lionsgate is pushing hard to separate itself from the sexual assault lawsuit surrounding Tyler Perry, and it is doing so by going directly after one of his accusers.
Court documents obtained by TMZ reveal the film distributor took a sharp tone toward Mario Rodriguez as part of its bid to be dropped from the case entirely. The company zeroed in on how little time Mario actually spent connected to any Lionsgate project, noting he “spent less than a week playing ‘Frat Guy #10′” in a Tyler Perry “Madea” film.
Lionsgate contended that Mario never raised any complaints about misconduct while working on the production, and that everything he is now alleging took place behind closed doors at Tyler’s personal property.
The distributor spelled it out plainly in its filing, stating that “now, ten years later, [Mario] is suing Lionsgate for negligent retention regarding alleged sexual advances [Tyler] allegedly made towards him at Tyler’s private residence (not on Lionsgate property or project) years after the shoot wrapped.”
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Rodriguez claims the sexual misconduct started after he met Perry through a gym trainer in 2015. That introduction led to phone calls and eventually a small role as “Frat Guy #10” in “Boo! A Madea Halloween.” According to the lawsuit, Perry invited Rodriguez over under the pretense of discussing projects. The actor alleges that Perry touched him inappropriately, including rubbing his inner thigh, grabbing his genitals, and trying to unbuckle his pants.
Rodriguez states Perry promised him career opportunities and financial support in exchange for sexual favors. After some of the alleged incidents, Perry reportedly gave him $5,000 in cash as an “apology.” The actor says he resisted the advances and eventually cut off contact by 2019. He decided to come forward after hearing of similar accusations in 2025. He is now pursuing $77 million in damages.
Perry addressed the lawsuit, saying Mario’s allegations have “no basis in fact or law.”
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Tyler Perry’s Attorneys Release Texts Allegedly Showing Accuser Sought Money Before Lawsuit
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