Filmmaker Tyler Perry is facing renewed scrutiny as a second actor, Mario Rodriguez, has come forward with allegations of sexual assault, filing a lawsuit claiming unwanted sexual advances. Rodriguez, who appeared in Perry's film "Boo! A Madea Halloween," filed the suit in California state court, seeking a substantial $77 million USD in damages. The lawsuit accuses Perry of sexual assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, and further implicates Perry's distributor, Lionsgate, for allegedly disregarding his misconduct.

The core of Rodriguez's claims centers on multiple alleged meetings where Perry reportedly touched him inappropriately, including touching Rodriguez's penis and placing Rodriguez's hand on Perry's own penis. The suit also states that after two of these alleged instances, Perry apologized and paid Rodriguez $5000. These new allegations follow an earlier lawsuit filed by Derek Dixon this year, which also accused Perry of sexual misconduct. Rodriguez's filing reportedly stemmed from seeing Dixon's actions, leading him to believe that Perry was "continuing to use his power and influence to sexually assault hopeful actors" and motivating him to seek justice and stop Perry's alleged actions.

In response to the gravity of these accusations, Perry's lawyer, Alex Spiro, dismissed the new lawsuit as another "failed money grab," noting that the same lawyer had recently been unsuccessful in a previous matter against Mr. Perry and that this new demand stemmed from more than a decade ago.

Tyler Perry, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, built his empire from humble beginnings. A native of New Orleans, Perry moved to Atlanta in 1990 at the age of 22. Two years later, he launched his first play, "I Know I've Been Changed." Despite an initially slow start, Perry cultivated a massive and dedicated audience for his stage productions, particularly within the underserved African-American community. The success of his plays provided the capital to finance his debut film, "Diary of a Mad Black Woman." This film, featuring Perry in his iconic role as the tough-talking elderly woman Madea, became an unexpected box office triumph. It marked the inception of a vast television and movie empire, headquartered in Atlanta, which Perry continues to helm. Beyond his own productions, Perry has also taken on acting roles in other major studio films, including "Alex Cross," "Gone Girl," "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows," and "Don't Look Up."

As the legal proceedings unfold, the entertainment industry watches closely. The lawsuit by Mario Rodriguez brings serious allegations against one of Hollywood's most influential figures, underscoring ongoing discussions about power dynamics and accountability within the sector. Stay tuned for future updates on this developing story.