Pictures: Paul Smith/Featureflash
*Tyler Perry’s attorneys have made public text message exchanges that they believe cast doubt on sexual battery accusations detailed in a recent lawsuit. The communications, shared with TMZ, reportedly show the plaintiff requesting financial assistance from Perry before pursuing legal action.
Actor Mario Rodriguez, 40, filed his complaint last week, accusing Perry of inappropriate touching and unwanted sexual contact spanning multiple years. According to SandraRose.com, the text exchanges reveal that Rodriguez contacted Perry about medical and economic hardships. He described suffering from a dental infection without medical coverage, stating, “feel sick most days,” and noting, “never told anybody this but my mom and everybody is starting to notice my broke a–. Don’t have insurance.”
Rodriguez mentioned concerns about serious health conditions and admitted he had previously agreed not to request Perry’s financial assistance. Other messages sent in 2024 show Rodriguez expressing gratitude to Perry. “you got my Mexican a– out of a lot of bad places and I just wanna tell you thank you,” Rodriguez wrote. “I can’t buy you anything, but I just wanna tell you that your boy right here appreciates you more than anything.”
He added, “straight from the heart bro nothing I wouldn’t do for you man anyways enjoy your time and I hope I see you again soon.” Perry responded, “Happy Thanksgiving my friend. Yeap [sic] you’ve been through it. I’m glad you’re doing well. You don’t have to give me a thing or pay me a thing. I’m just glad you’re good.”
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We reported earlier that 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 Perry’s 2016 film “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 earlier in 2025.
Upon discovering the pending litigation, Perry reportedly sent Rodriguez a message conveying feelings of betrayal. Rodriguez publicized his allegations through a video statement, saying, “I stayed quiet for much too long,” before declaring, “But I’m speaking up now.”
This marks the second legal complaint Perry has faced within six months. Actor Derek Dixon’s earlier lawsuit was transferred to Georgia before being thrown out based on statute of limitations issues.
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