Tyler Perry Seeks Court Order to Seal Private Text Messages in Sexual Assault Lawsuit

Tyler Perry has requested a Los Angeles court to prevent private text messages from being disclosed to the public as he continues to fight a $77 million sexual assault lawsuit. The motion, filed Thursday, alleges that Perry provided these communications to his accuser, Mario Rodriguez, under an explicit agreement of confidentiality. Perry contends that the release of these messages would cause “unnecessary embarrassment” and infringe upon the privacy of third-party associates who are not involved in the litigation.

Rodriguez, an actor who appeared as “Frat Guy #10” in the 2016 film “Boo! A Madea Halloween,” filed the lawsuit in December 2025. He alleges that Perry made numerous unwanted sexual advances between 2014 and 2019, including an incident where Perry allegedly grabbed his genitals while they were watching a movie at Perry’s home.

According to court documents, Perry argues that the text messages in question include discussions regarding financial agreements and personal matters. The filmmaker stated that he and his associates operated under the assumption that these exchanges were private.

He is now seeking a court order to limit how Rodriguez can use or share the material outside of the legal proceedings. Perry has steadfastly denied the allegations, with his attorney, Alex Spiro, characterizing the lawsuit as a “failed money grab.” Spiro said the claims have no basis in fact or law.

The defense has argued that Rodriguez frequently solicited Perry for financial assistance—including funds for a car and medical bills—and only turned to litigation after the filmmaker stopped providing support. Rodriguez has countered that the friendly tone of the text messages should not be used to discredit his claims. He said that survivors of abuse often remain cordial with those who have influence over their careers and financial stability, especially when they feel vulnerable or desperate.

The lawsuit seeks at least $77 million in damages, citing claims of sexual battery, sexual assault and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The court must now determine if the latest batch of discovery evidence will remain under seal or be made available to the public.