Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are facing backlash after reportedly distancing themselves from longtime friend and Hollywood powerhouse Tyler Perry, who is currently embroiled in a high-profile sexual harassment lawsuit. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have chosen to remain silent as Perry—who is also godfather to their daughter, Princess Lilibet—faces serious allegations from actor Derek Dixon.
Tyler Perry Accused in $260 Million Sexual Harassment Case
The lawsuit, which seeks $260 million in damages, accuses Perry of creating a “coercive, sexually exploitative dynamic” on the sets of his shows The Oval and Ruthless. The complaint alleges that Perry leveraged his power and influence inappropriately and draws comparisons to disgraced Hollywood figures such as Harvey Weinstein, Kevin Spacey, and R. Kelly.
“Mr. Perry sought the one thing his wealth and influence could not purchase – a sexual relationship with a man who would remain silent,” the lawsuit claims.
While Perry’s legal team has not yet issued a full response, his defenders—including Matthew Boyd—have called the accusations a “money-making scam.”
The Sussexes Steer Clear
Despite their close ties to Perry—who notably offered the couple his Los Angeles mansion and private security after they stepped back from royal duties—Harry and Meghan have reportedly chosen to avoid any public association with the case.
An insider told RadarOnline,
“They are remaining quiet on purpose because they do not want to get involved in Tyler’s case. The Sussexes do not want to be on any lawyer’s radar—especially now, since they know anything they say could be turned around against them in court.”
Critics Accuse Harry and Meghan of Hypocrisy
The royal couple’s silence has not gone unnoticed. Royal commentator Hilary Fordwich criticized their lack of support, calling it a “failure of moral courage.” She, along with other royal watchers, argues that their decision to stay silent is especially problematic given Perry’s past public support for the couple.
“Tyler Perry stood by them in their most vulnerable time. For them to remain silent now is being seen as hypocritical by many,” another critic added.
The backlash continues to grow as Perry’s legal battle unfolds, raising questions about the Duke and Duchess’s stance on loyalty, public image, and their future in Hollywood.
