Newly surfaced text messages allegedly exchanged between filmmaker Tyler Perry and his latest accuser appear to show the plaintiff discussing money and financial hardship with Perry months before filing a $77 million lawsuit, according to TMZ and other outlets.
The messages, which were obtained by TMZ and published Sunday, show aspiring actor and model Mario Rodriguez — who filed a sexual assault and sexual battery lawsuit against Perry December 25 in Los Angeles Superior Court — reaching out to the director in August 2025 about his personal struggles.
In the texts dated August 31, Rodriguez allegedly wrote that he had been feeling unwell, was dealing with health issues, and didn’t have insurance — adding that he was “scared” and struggling to pay his bills. The messages reportedly include lines such as, “I know I promised you I would never ask you for anything… but… I barely pay my bills,” and references to concerns about serious illness.
Other alleged exchanges from late 2024 show Rodriguez expressing gratitude toward Perry for helping him in the past and describing him as a friend, with messages thanking the director for opportunities and support. In one Thanksgiving message, Rodriguez reportedly wrote that he appreciated Perry “to the moon.” Perry’s response in these texts allegedly conveyed goodwill, with Perry telling Rodriguez he didn’t expect anything in return.
The lawsuit Rodriguez filed against Perry last week accuses the 56-year-old media mogul of unwanted sexual advances in incidents dating back to the mid-2010s, including occasions at Perry’s Los Angeles home. Among the allegations are claims that Perry made physical contact and attempted to coerce Rodriguez with promises of career opportunities, which Perry denies.
In response to the lawsuit and the newly reported texts, Perry’s attorney Alex Spiro issued a statement dismissing the legal action as a “$77 million money grab scam.” Spiro’s legal team pointed to the messaging as evidence, raising questions about the motives and timing of the suit.
Rodriguez has not publicly responded to the reports about the text messages. His lawsuit, which also names Lionsgate as a defendant based on distribution ties to a film in which Rodriguez appeared, seeks compensatory and punitive damages for alleged sexual battery, assault, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
The case adds to ongoing legal and public scrutiny of Perry, who earlier this year faced another lawsuit from actor Derek Dixon alleging similar misconduct. Perry has denied all allegations in both matters.
