Taraji P. Henson is no stranger to loyalty, but this time, her unwavering support for Tyler Perry may be backfiring—big time.

As shocking new details continue to emerge from actor Derek Dixon’s sexual assault lawsuit against Perry, Taraji is facing fierce backlash for publicly standing by her longtime collaborator and friend. And fans aren’t holding back.

The controversy began when Derek Dixon, who once had small roles in Perry’s shows Ruthless and The Oval, filed a lawsuit accusing Tyler Perry of sexual misconduct, manipulation, and professional retaliation.

The suit paints a deeply disturbing picture of alleged abuse of power, likening Perry’s actions to those of disgraced Hollywood moguls like Harvey Weinstein and Bill Cosby.

When the news broke, many were stunned. But what really sent social media into a frenzy was Taraji P. Henson’s immediate and fiery defense of Perry. According to insiders, the Empire star slammed Dixon as a liar and opportunist—allegedly accusing him of trying to use his “friendship” with Perry for a shortcut to fame.

Taraji and Tyler Perry have worked together for over 16 years, and she recently starred in his Netflix film Straw, which smashed viewership records. So, her loyalty isn’t surprising.

What is surprising, though, is how vocal and aggressive she’s been about discrediting Dixon—especially as more men are rumored to be preparing to speak out with similar stories.

Critics online are calling Taraji’s stance disappointing, tone-deaf, and even dangerous. Many are asking why she’s defending Perry so passionately, especially when sexual assault allegations are involved. Is she protecting a friend—or her own career?

Some believe it’s the latter. Tyler Perry is one of the few Hollywood powerhouses known for consistently paying Black artists—particularly Black women—what they’re worth. Actress Meagan Good even once tearfully said Perry was the first person in her decades-long career to truly value her financially. In an industry notorious for underpaying women of color, Perry has been seen as a rare champion. That kind of loyalty—especially financial—can run deep.

But there’s more. Rumors are swirling that Tyler Perry may have helped Taraji land her iconic role as Cookie Lyon on Empire. Allegedly, the role was first offered to Monique, who later claimed she was dropped from the show after being labeled “difficult to work with.” According to Monique, Tyler Perry played a role in that decision. So, if true, Taraji may owe a significant chunk of her career trajectory to Perry’s behind-the-scenes influence.

Now, as these disturbing allegations gain traction, fans are questioning whether Taraji’s defense of Perry is rooted in friendship—or fear. If Perry goes down, would her career take a hit too?

Meanwhile, Dixon’s lawsuit paints a detailed timeline of escalating misconduct. He claims Perry promised him stardom, only to later exploit and manipulate him. In one shocking incident, Dixon says he was invited to Perry’s Atlanta home, where he alleges the director made unwanted sexual advances. When Dixon rejected him, he claims the retaliation began—starting with being offered lesser roles and followed by increasingly inappropriate behavior.

Screenshots of alleged text exchanges between Perry and Dixon have been leaked, and they are raising eyebrows. In one, Perry reportedly tells Dixon, “You’re missing the best years of your life, my friend,” while encouraging him to “let someone hold you and make love to you.” In others, Perry allegedly asks about his sexual preferences in deeply personal ways.

Even if some parts of Dixon’s story seem rooted in industry disappointment, the level of alleged manipulation—especially coming from someone in a powerful position—is deeply unsettling.

And that’s exactly why fans are turning on Taraji. They feel her defense not only invalidates a survivor’s claims but also potentially helps shield someone accused of serious misconduct. In today’s cultural climate, where survivors are encouraged to speak out, her decision to double down on loyalty over listening is not landing well.

Still, Taraji shows no signs of backing down. She remains adamant that Dixon is bitter and looking for a quick rise in Hollywood—a place where, as she’s said before, you have to “grind and sacrifice” for years before making it big.

Whether Dixon’s claims hold up in court remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: this scandal is already tarnishing reputations, and Taraji’s bold stance may cost her the trust of many fans.

In the court of public opinion, choosing a side in a case this sensitive is a risky move. And while Taraji might believe she’s standing up for the truth, many believe she’s just standing too close to the fire.