Harry, Meghan's loyalty put to test as Tyler Perry allegations emerge

Tyler Perry is facing serious allegations of harassment from actor Derek Dixon who said in lawsuit that the  Hollywood mogul used his industry power to sexually assault and harass him while keeping him quiet.

The lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by actor Derek Dixon, who appeared on 85 episodes of the BET series, seeks at least $260 million in damages.

Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, said its allegations are false.

The troubling details given in the lawsuit suggest the alleged harassment occurred over an extended period—including the same time Perry was widely praised for helping Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their transition from royal life in the UK to the US.

In early 2020, Perry offered the Duke and Duchess of Sussex a private Los Angeles home and full security after they left Britain and found themselves temporarily without a safe haven. 

This act of generosity was highlighted in the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's documentary Harry & Meghan, where Perry appears discussing his decision to support the couple. 

Perry said he identified with Meghan’s emotional pain and felt compelled to step in when “no one else would help them.”

However, based on the dates mentioned in Dixon’s complaint, Perry was allegedly still harassing his former employee during the same period he was featured in the documentary portraying himself as a protector and ally of the vulnerable.

The contrast between Perry's public image as a benevolent savior and the private accusations of toxic behavior could place Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in a difficult position. 

If the allegations are proven true, the royal couple would face pressure to distance themselves or publicly criticize someone who once came to their aid.

For Harry and Meghan, the line between gratitude and accountability may soon be tested in the court of public opinion.