Tyler Perry

$1.36 B

Ranked #2761 in World

About Tyler Perry

Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on September 13, 1969, Tyler Perry overcame a tumultuous childhood to become a powerhouse in entertainment. From his first stage play in 1992, "I Know I've Been Changed," to amassing over $150 million in ticket, video, and merchandise sales by 2005, Perry's journey is a testament to resilience. His directorial debut with "Diary of a Mad Black Woman" in 2005 was followed by a succession of films and a fruitful partnership with Lions Gate Entertainment. Beyond cinema, Perry established a dominant presence on television and founded Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, transforming a former military base into a major production facility. Despite facing criticism for reinforcing stereotypes, Perry's work is celebrated for its rich narrative depth and cultural impact. His personal life, marked by philanthropy and close relationships with industry icons, underscores a legacy extending beyond his creative output.

Born

September 13, 1969 in New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.

Age

56 years

Source Of Wealth

Movies, Television

Industries

Media & Entertainment

Citizenship

United States

Residence

Atlanta, Georgia

Children

Emmitt Perry Jr., better known as Tyler Perry, was born on September 13, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He endured a challenging upbringing, describing it as a "living hell." Seeking solace, his mother took him to church, where he found refuge and contentment. At the age of 16, he changed his first name from Emmitt to Tyler to distance himself from his father. Perry revealed that he was molested by a friend's mother at age 10 and by three other men prior. A DNA test later revealed that Emmitt Sr. was not his biological father. Despite not completing high school, Perry earned a General Educational Development (GED).

Tyler Perry: Family

Tyler Perry's family life was marked by challenges and estrangement. His father, Emmitt Perry Sr., was not his biological father, as revealed by a DNA test. Perry's mother, Willie Maxine Perry, played a significant role in his life, taking him to church and providing him with emotional support. However, their relationship was strained, and Perry has spoken about the difficulties he faced in connecting with his family.

Tyler Perry: Career Highlights

Stage

Tyler Perry's career took off in the early 1990s when he moved to Atlanta. With his life savings, he produced his first stage play, "I Know I've Been Changed," in 1992. Initially met with a lukewarm reception and financial failure, Perry persevered. Over the next six years, he rewrote and re-staged the play, gradually gaining a large following. By 2005, Perry's stage productions had sold over $100 million in tickets, $30 million in videos, and $20 million in merchandise.

Film

Fuelled by the success of his stage productions, Tyler Perry raised $5.5 million from ticket sales to fund his first movie, "Diary of a Mad Black Woman," released in 2005. The film's success propelled Perry into the film industry. He made his directorial debut with "Madea's Family Reunion" (2006), which opened at number one at the box office.

Subsequent films, such as "Daddy's Little Girls" (2007), "Why Did I Get Married?" (2007), "Meet the Browns" (2008), "Madea Goes to Jail" (2009), and more, solidified Perry's status as a successful filmmaker. He also collaborated with Oprah Winfrey on the critically acclaimed film "Precious" (2009). Perry's filmography includes non-Madea films such as "Star Trek" (2009), "Alex Cross" (2012), "Gone Girl" (2014), and others.

Film Partnerships and Distribution

Tyler Perry's films are co-produced and distributed by Lions Gate Entertainment. However, Perry retains full copyright ownership under Tyler Perry Films. While his films have limited release outside North America, plans for a UK release were announced in 2010.

Television Programs

In addition to his film success, Tyler Perry has produced numerous television programs. His long-running sitcom "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" aired from 2006 to 2012. He created other successful series, including "Meet the Browns," "For Better or Worse," "The Haves and the Have Nots," "Love Thy Neighbor," "If Loving You Is Wrong," and more. Perry's partnership with Oprah Winfrey and OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) resulted in several scripted television productions.

Tyler Perry Studios

In a significant move, Tyler Perry acquired the former military base Fort McPherson in Atlanta and transformed it into Tyler Perry Studios. The studio complex boasts 12 sound stages named after accomplished African-Americans in the entertainment industry. It has served as the filming location for various productions, including "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" and "The Walking Dead."

Books

Tyler Perry has also ventured into the literary world. He has published books such as "Don't Make a Black Woman Take Off Her Earrings: Madea's Uninhibited Commentaries on Love and Life" (2006) and "Higher Is Waiting" (2017).

Legal Actions

Tyler Perry has faced legal disputes throughout his career. Notable cases include conflicts with the Writers Guild of America, West, and Mo' Money Taxes.

Reception

Tyler Perry's films have received mixed reviews.

While some praise his ability to connect with audiences and address social issues, others criticize his work for perpetuating negative African-American stereotypes. Spike Lee's criticism of Perry's work led to a public back-and-forth between the two filmmakers. Perry's films have also been spoofed in popular shows like "The Boondocks" and "Atlanta." Additionally, Perry has been criticized for not using a writers room, leading to responses from the filmmaker.

Tyler Perry: Personal Life & Legacy

Tyler Perry's personal life is characterized by close friendships with celebrities such as Janet Jackson, Will Smith, and Oprah Winfrey. His Christian faith significantly influences his work, often incorporating church settings and gospel music. Perry owns a 17-acre estate in Atlanta and has made significant philanthropic contributions, including sponsoring 65 children from a Philadelphia day camp to visit Walt Disney World after they were shunned by a suburban swim club. He has experienced personal tragedies, including the loss of his mother in 2009. Perry lives and works in Southwest Atlanta, where he operates the Tyler Perry film and TV studios.

Tyler Perry: Trivia

Tyler Perry's life and career are marked by several interesting facts and anecdotes. He purchased around 1,100 acres (4.5 km2) in New Manchester, Georgia, Douglas County, Georgia. In a heartwarming gesture, he provided initial security and housing for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle when they relocated from Canada to California in March 2020. Perry is godfather to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's daughter, Princess Lilibet of Sussex. He has openly discussed his struggles with depression and attempted suicide before his career took off. To overcome his fear of flying, Perry obtained a private pilot certificate and flies a Cirrus SR22T aircraft.

Wealth History

Timeline

September 13, 1969

Tyler Perry is born Emmitt Perry Jr. in New Orleans, Louisiana.

1990

Tyler Perry moves to Atlanta.

1992

Tyler Perry's first stage play, "I Know I've Been Changed," is performed with his life savings.

2005

Tyler Perry raises $5.5 million from stage production ticket sales to fund his first movie, "Diary of a Mad Black Woman".

2006

Tyler Perry makes his directorial debut with "Madea's Family Reunion," which opens at number one at the box office.

2006-2012

Tyler Perry produces the long-running sitcom "Tyler Perry's House of Payne".

2009

Tyler Perry collaborates with Oprah Winfrey on "Precious".

2010

Tyler Perry announces plans for a UK release of his films.

2014

Tyler Perry's partner, Gelila Bekele, gives birth to their son, Aman.

2017

Tyler Perry publishes the book "Higher Is Waiting".

2020

Tyler Perry announces he is a single bachelor.

Tyler Perry : FAQs

What is Tyler Perry's current net worth?

Tyler Perry's current net worth is $1.36 billion.

What is Tyler Perry's current global rank among billionaires?

Tyler Perry holds the 2761st position globally among billionaires.

What is Tyler Perry's current ranking within the United States?

Tyler Perry holds the 837th position in United States.

What was the change in Tyler Perry's net worth compared to the previous year?

Tyler Perry's net worth decreased by 0 million dollars compared to the previous year 2025, when his net worth was 1.36 billion dollars.

What are Tyler Perry's main sources of wealth?

Tyler Perry's main source of income comes from Movies, Television.

In which industry does Tyler Perry primarily operate?

Tyler Perry is primarily involved in the Media & Entertainment industry.

How old is Tyler Perry?

Tyler Perry is 56 years old.

How many children does Tyler Perry have?

Tyler Perry has 1 children.

What inspired Tyler Perry to change his first name and how has his difficult childhood influenced his career?

Tyler Perry changed his first name from Emmitt to Tyler at age 16 to distance himself from his father, amidst a difficult childhood he described as a 'living hell.' His early experiences and refuge in church significantly influenced his career, often incorporating themes of overcoming adversity and faith in his works.

How did Tyler Perry transition from stage plays to the film industry, and what was his first movie?

Tyler Perry transitioned from stage plays to the film industry by using $5.5 million raised from stage production ticket sales to fund his first movie, 'Diary of a Mad Black Woman,' in 2005, marking the beginning of his successful filmmaking career.

Can you detail the significance of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta and its contribution to the entertainment industry?

Tyler Perry Studios, established on the grounds of the former military base Fort McPherson in Atlanta, is significant for hosting 12 sound stages named after accomplished African-Americans in the entertainment industry. It serves as a major filming location, contributing vastly to both the local and broader entertainment industry.

What are some of Tyler Perry's contributions to television, and how has his partnership with Oprah Winfrey enhanced his reach?

Tyler Perry has contributed significantly to television with long-running sitcoms like 'Tyler Perry's House of Payne' and series such as 'Meet the Browns.' His partnership with Oprah Winfrey and OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) for scripted television has vastly enhanced his reach and influence in the industry.

How has Tyler Perry used his resources and platform to support and impact communities outside of his own works?

Tyler Perry has used his resources and platform to support various causes, including sponsoring 65 children from a Philadelphia day camp to visit Walt Disney World. He's also offered a $200,000 reward for information in the case of the disappearances of Terrance Williams and Felipe Santos, demonstrating his commitment to community support and social justice issues.