Tyler Perry is a celebrated American actor, filmmaker, playwright, and entrepreneur. He is best known for creating the iconic character Mabel “Madea” Simmons, which has become a staple in his films and stage plays. Perry’s work often explores themes of family, forgiveness, and personal growth, resonating with a broad audience.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Emmitt Perry Jr. (Tyler Perry) |
| Date of Birth | September 13, 1969 |
| Place of Birth | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Partner | Gelila Bekele (ex-partner) |
| Children | Aman Tyler Perry |
| Occupations | Actor, Filmmaker, Playwright, Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | Over $600 million |
Early Life and Education
Born on September 13, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Tyler Perry grew up in a challenging home environment, experiencing physical and emotional abuse.
He found solace in writing and began crafting plays as a way to cope with his experiences. Perry did not attend college but instead pursued a career in theater, eventually moving to Atlanta in the early 1990s.
Career
Tyler Perry’s career began with his first stage play, I Know I’ve Been Changed, which he financed with his life savings. Initially, the play received mixed reviews and was financially unsuccessful.
However, Perry persisted, rewriting and restaging the play until it gained traction in 1998. He went on to create numerous successful stage productions, touring extensively and building a devoted following.
In 2005, Perry made his film debut with Diary of a Mad Black Woman, which became a commercial success. He raised $5.5 million from stage production ticket sales to fund this film. Perry’s directorial debut came with Madea’s Family Reunion in 2006, which opened at number one at the box office.
Perry ventured into television in 2007 with House of Payne, a comedy series that became highly successful. He produced 10 pilot episodes, investing $5 million of his own money, and the show was distributed free to 10 television stations.
The strong viewer response led TBS to order 100 new episodes, a deal worth over $200 million. Other notable TV shows include Meet the Browns, The Haves and the Have Nots, and Sistas.
In 2015, Perry acquired the 330-acre former military base Fort McPherson in Atlanta, converting it into Tyler Perry Studios. The studio has hosted major productions, including The Walking Dead and Black Panther.
Perry signed a long-term deal with ViacomCBS in 2017 to produce 90 episodes of original content annually.
Perry has continued to act in films like Alex Cross, Gone Girl, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He has also expanded his philanthropic efforts, notably providing support to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Perry was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2019 and received the Governors Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences in 2020.
Personal Life
Tyler Perry is a father to a son named Aman Tyler Perry, born in December 2014, with his former partner Gelila Bekele. Although they are no longer together, they maintain a strong commitment to co-parenting.
Bekele, an Ethiopian model, filmmaker, and activist, was in a long-term relationship with Perry. Despite their separation, both prioritize their role as parents to Aman. Perry remains focused on his personal growth and being a devoted father.
Tyler Perry Net Worth
As of 2025, Tyler Perry’s net worth is estimated to be over $600 million, primarily from his successful career in film, television, and theater, as well as his ownership of Tyler Perry Studios.
Filmography
Notable Films
- Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005)
- Madea’s Family Reunion (2006)
- Daddy’s Little Girls (2007)
- Why Did I Get Married (2007)
- Madea Goes to Jail (2009)
- For Colored Girls (2010)
- Good Deeds (2012)
- Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor (2013)
- A Madea Christmas (2013)
- Boo! A Madea Halloween (2016)
- Acrimony (2018)
- Nobody’s Fool (2018)
Notable Television Shows
- House of Payne (2007-2012)
- Meet the Browns (2009-2011)
- The Haves and the Have Nots (2013-2021)
- If Loving You Is Wrong (2014-2020)
- Sistas (2019-present)
- The Oval (2019-present)
Awards and Nominations
Tyler Perry has received numerous awards and nominations for his work, including the NAACP Image Awards and the African-American Film Critics Association Awards. He has been recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry and his philanthropic efforts.
