Derek Dixon Felt ‘Too Afraid to Come Forward’ with Tyler Perry Allegations

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In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, actor Derek Dixon – who portrays the character Dale in Tyler Perry’s TV series The Oval – discussed his experiences since filing a $260 million lawsuit against Perry for sexual assault and harassment last month. Dixon shared that he initially crossed paths with Perry while working as an event coordinator at the launch party for Perry’s new studio. Perry is alleged to have taken a special interest in Dixon, and they eventually exchanged contact information, with Perry assuring him that his aspirations of becoming an actor would be realized. After being cast as Dale in the spin-off series Ruthless, Dixon later returned as a regular character on The Oval.

Dixon recounted his initial claim of sexual misconduct by Perry. After they had drinks at Perry’s residence, Perry suggested that it wasn’t safe for Dixon to drive and proposed he spend the night in the guest house. Later on, Perry got into bed with Dixon and started massaging his thigh. Dixon quickly got out of the bed, stating, “I’m not very sexual,” and maintained a distance until Perry left the room. Dixon believed that his actions made it clear that he wasn’t interested. Since then, Perry is said to have bombarded Dixon with numerous messages and subsequently created Dixon’s comedy pilot as a form of collateral.

Discussing the reason for his late disclosure, Dixon admitted he held back because he was “terrified” of potential consequences. He worried about losing his job, acting career, and even the backing of his colleagues: “I realized it wouldn’t be easy. And unfortunately, I was correct.

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2025-07-11 09:53