Mario Rodriguez is speaking out after alleged text messages exchanged between him and Tyler Perry leaked online.
In a statement obtained by PEOPLE, Rodriguez addressed public reaction to the messages.
“I want to briefly respond to what’s being said about me right now,” he said. “People are pointing to messages where I was polite, grateful, or vulnerable and trying to use that to discredit me.”
Rodriguez filed a lawsuit against Perry on Christmas Day, alleging sexual assault and sexual battery. “When someone has influence over your career, your income, your future, you don’t feel free,” he said. “Survivors often stay cordial. They often ask for help when they feel desperate.”
He added, “That does not mean abuse didn’t happen. Continued financial support and access are not inconsistent with abuse. They are often part of the power dynamics that follow it.”
Rodriguez, a model who previously appeared in a small role in Boo! A Madea Halloween, is seeking $77 million in damages. Perry’s attorney, Alex Spiro, has denied the allegations, previously calling the lawsuit “nothing but a 77 million dollar money grab scam.”
The leaked text messages appear to show Rodriguez referring to Perry as a “friend” in late 2024 and discussing health and financial struggles.
In one message, Rodriguez allegedly wrote, “Just know that I love you and I thank you for everything. I appreciate you to the moon.” In another, he added, “I can’t buy you anything, but I just want you to know how much I appreciate you.”