*Mario Rodriguez has asked a court to sanction Tyler Perry, escalating an already contentious legal fight between the actor and filmmaker.
According to court filings, Rodriguez has attempted to depose Perry since April 14, TMZ reports. Rodriguez contends that Perry’s legal team would not proceed unless both sides agreed to avoid questions about whether Perry is or has been sexually attracted to men.
Perry’s attorneys have maintained that inquiries into his sexual orientation have no bearing on the case, describing such questions as “irrelevant and inflammatory.” Rodriguez disputes that position and points to previous allegations involving other male accusers as support for his argument.
Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, pushed back against the sanctions request and denied that the filmmaker avoided a deposition or restricted questioning. “As we said from the outset, this is a shakedown and now a shakedown and a frivolous motion. Tyler did not fail to appear for a deposition nor refuse any line of questioning. We will seek sanctions,” Spiro said.
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The dispute stems from Rodriguez’s broader lawsuit against Perry, which includes claims of sexual assault, sexual battery, and other allegations. Perry has denied the accusations, stating they have “no basis in fact or law.”
Rodriguez alleges he met Perry through a gym trainer in 2015. He claims that introduction led to phone conversations, acting opportunities, and a small role as “Frat Guy #10” in “Boo! A Madea Halloween.” The lawsuit further alleges that Perry made unwanted sexual advances, promised career opportunities and financial support in exchange for sexual favors, and later gave Rodriguez $5,000 as an apology following one alleged incident.
Perry’s attorneys have argued that Rodriguez continued communicating with the filmmaker after the alleged incidents and frequently sought financial assistance. They contend the allegations surfaced only after Perry declined to provide additional money.
Lionsgate is also seeking dismissal from the case. In court filings, the company argued that Rodriguez worked on its production for less than a week and never reported misconduct while on set. The distributor further asserted that the alleged incidents occurred at Perry’s private residence rather than on company property or during a Lionsgate project.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Lionsgate Takes Aim at Tyler Perry Accuser Mario Rodriguez in Court Filing
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