AceShowbiz - Tyler Perry is currently entangled in a legal dispute involving actor Mario Rodriguez, who has accused the filmmaker of making unwanted sexual advances. The case has taken a new turn as the distributor Lionsgate has filed a motion to be dismissed from the lawsuit.

According to court filings, Lionsgate argues that Rodriguez’s involvement in Perry’s 2016 film Boo! A Madea Halloween was minimal. The documents state that Rodriguez “spent less than a week playing ‘Frat Guy #10’” and had previously acknowledged that no misconduct occurred during the production of the movie.

The studio also points out that the alleged incident did not happen on any Lionsgate property or film set, but rather at Perry’s private residence, which is unrelated to their involvement. Lionsgate’s legal team claims that Rodriguez’s attempt to include the company in the lawsuit is a “transparent ploy” intended to keep the case in state court instead of moving it to federal court.

Rodriguez initially filed the lawsuit seeking $77 million in damages, alleging that he first met Tyler Perry at a gym in 2015 and was later cast in a small role in the Madea film. He claims the inappropriate behavior occurred after the filming had concluded.

Perry has publicly denied all allegations. In previous statements, he asserted that Rodriguez’s claims are without any factual or legal basis and accused him of repeatedly requesting money for personal expenses such as his car, apartment, and medical bills prior to filing the lawsuit.

This legal battle highlights the complex challenges involved when allegations arise against high-profile figures and their associated companies. As this matter progresses, the court will determine whether Lionsgate can be removed from the case and how the claims against Tyler Perry will be handled moving forward.