LOS ANGELES – Actor Derek Dixon, a former star on the Tyler Perry-produced series "The Oval," has broken his silence regarding a bombshell $260 million lawsuit he filed against the entertainment mogul, alleging sexual assault and battery. In his first public interviews since the lawsuit was filed, Dixon stated he "couldn't stay silent" about the alleged encounter, which he claims occurred at Perry's Los Angeles home.

Tyler Perry, through his attorney, has forcefully denied all allegations, labeling them a "shameful, fabricated shakedown." The explosive claims and subsequent denial have sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, placing one of its most powerful figures under intense scrutiny.

The Allegations Emerge

Dixon, who appeared in 85 episodes of the BET drama "The Oval," filed the lawsuit in the Los Angeles Superior Court. According to the legal filing and recent interviews, Dixon alleges that after a work-related meeting, Perry invited him into his home, where the filmmaker sexually assaulted him.

"I couldn't believe what was happening," Dixon told Yahoo Entertainment in an interview published Friday. He described feeling paralyzed and intimidated, given Perry's immense influence over his career. Dixon’s lawsuit details claims of sexual battery, assault, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, seeking $260 million in damages. The complaint states that the alleged incident has caused him significant psychological trauma and has effectively derailed his acting career.

Dixon's legal team asserts that their client’s decision to speak out is aimed at seeking justice and holding a powerful figure accountable. The actor emphasized that his primary motivation was to prevent others from potentially experiencing similar situations.

A Firm Denial from Perry's Camp

In response to the lawsuit, Tyler Perry’s representatives have issued a strong and unequivocal denial. Marty Singer, a high-profile attorney representing Perry, dismissed the claims as baseless and malicious.

"Mr. Perry vehemently denies this shameful, fabricated shakedown," Singer said in a statement provided to multiple news outlets. "The allegations are an outlandish and offensive lie. We have evidence that will prove Mr. Dixon's claims are false and that he is motivated by a desire for a payday."

The statement further characterized the lawsuit as an attempt to tarnish Perry's reputation. Perry, a self-made billionaire, is one of the most prolific and successful producers in Hollywood, known for creating a vast media empire that includes films, television series, and the Tyler Perry Studios complex in Atlanta. His legal team has indicated they will pursue all available legal remedies to counter what they describe as a defamatory campaign.

Industry and Legal Ramifications

The lawsuit arrives at a time of continued reckoning within the entertainment world regarding abuses of power, largely amplified by the #MeToo movement. The case pits a working actor against one of the industry's most prominent and powerful figures, highlighting the significant power imbalances that can exist in Hollywood.

Legal experts note that civil cases involving sexual assault allegations often hinge on credibility. The proceedings will likely involve a meticulous examination of evidence from both sides, including witness testimony, digital communications, and other corroborating materials. The high-profile nature of the case ensures it will be closely watched by the public and the industry alike.

As the legal battle begins to unfold, the case raises critical questions about accountability, workplace safety, and the culture within the entertainment industry. For now, both sides are preparing for what is expected to be a contentious legal fight, with Dixon seeking what he calls "accountability" and Perry's team defending the filmmaker's reputation against what they insist are false accusations.