![Tyler Perry Accuser Mario Rodriguez Jr. Admits “I Felt Like My Dream Was Coming True” After Alleged Abuse [Video]](https://balleralert.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Untitled-design-2026-03-03T170527712.png "Tyler Perry Accuser Mario Rodriguez Jr. Admits “I Felt Like My Dream Was Coming True” After Alleged Abuse [Video] - Baller Alert")
Tyler Perry is pushing back hard against a $77 million lawsuit filed by actor Mario Rodriguez, calling the case a money grab that has no legal merit.
The filmmaker’s legal team filed a formal response in Los Angeles Superior Court on February 27. The filing rejects Rodriguez’s accusations that Perry made unwanted sexual advances and argues the claims “have no basis in fact and law and no merit.”
Perry’s defense team includes attorney Alex Spiro. Spiro previously represented several high-profile clients, including Jay Z.
According to the filing, Perry says Rodriguez repeatedly asked him for financial help after receiving “a very minor role in a single film.” Perry claims the actor requested assistance with rent, a car, unpaid bills, and medical expenses. The response also alleges that Rodriguez began making accusations only after Perry stopped providing financial support. Because of that, Perry is asking the court to dismiss the complaint and block Rodriguez from receiving any damages.
Rodriguez first filed the lawsuit on Christmas Day. In the complaint, the actor claimed he experienced unwanted advances from Perry on several occasions between 2014 and 2019. Rodriguez said he ended contact with Perry in 2019.
At the time, Spiro dismissed the lawsuit in strong terms.
“I said it before, and I will say it again. This is nothing but a $77 million money grab scam,” Spiro said.
Rodriguez later responded publicly after friendly text messages between the two surfaced online.
“I want to briefly respond to what’s being said about me right now. People are pointing to messages where I was polite, grateful, or vulnerable—and trying to use that to discredit me,” Rodriguez said.
“When someone has influence over your career, your income, your future, you don’t feel free. Survivors often stay cordial. They often ask for help when they feel desperate. That does not mean abuse didn’t happen.”
The case remains pending in the Los Angeles Superior Court.
