Congrats to Tyler Perry!
Looks like Perry’s movie “Madea’s Family Reunion” blew out the competition this weekend earning just over $10 million!
What is even more impressive is Perry’s bio. Here is a piece of it below:
“From homelessness to sheer bliss, thirty five-year old playwright, director, producer and actor Tyler Perry is truly riding high! Within the span of only six years, he went from being “out on the streets” to “selling out” theaters wherever he goes. He has done it with not only one show - but with seven shows having successfully toured the nation and thus creating a change in the history of Black theater.
This New Orleans native has had a stellar decade and is showing no signs of letting up any time soon. In 1992, he wrote a series of letters to himself in an effort to find a catharsis for his own childhood pain. Those same letters would eventually culminate to become Tyler’s first hit musical, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” a rousing stage play about adult survivors of child abuse. The story combines a delicate mix of comedy and drama while addressing the often times uncomfortable issues which surround one’s recovery from painful childhood scars.
Perry, feeling that he was onto something, eventually saved twelve thousand dollars, moved to the city of Atlanta with a script in his hand and a dream in his heart. However, after renting out a theater and starring in the production, he soon found out that it was not going to be as easy a task as he had thought. When only thirty people showed up in the audience over the entire weekend, Tyler came to the realization that theatrical promoting was definitely not his calling.
However, one thing that he did know was that “this” was what he was supposed to be doing. And when God leads, He will provide. Out of the thirty in the audience, one wanted to invest. This newfound investor would soon find out that it took more than money to make a show work and as a result, the show would fail, repeatedly.
Because of having put all of his eggs in one basket, Tyler would eventually find himself homeless on one or more occasions over the following six years. Broke and at times starving, he relentlessly held on to his faith in God and continued to believe that it would all “come out all right” one day. “I know the Lord will make a way!” Perry would often exclaim.
When he did finally reach a point where he was going to give up, he reluctantly decided to do one last show. It was that one faithful decision which would change his life forever.
In the summer of 1998, what was supposed to be the “final” production of Tyler Perry’s “I Know I’ve Been Changed” opened at the House of Blues in Atlanta and sold out eight times over. Two weeks later, the play would move to the prestigious Fox Theater and sell out 9,000 more seats for just two shows! “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” would go on to gross several million dollars in revenue and ultimately raise the level of thinking concerning Black theater productions. Critics and audiences alike would eventually abandon the insulting title of “Chitlin Circuit”, when referring to Black theater, bestowing upon it instead the respectable title of “Urban Theater.”
The Washington Post wrote rave reviews for both the production quality of “I Know I’ve Been Changed” and Tyler’s acting performances, calling it “on the whole” the most “well-produced Gospel show” they had “ever seen”. To date, Mr. Perry continues to receive fan mail from people who talk about how seeing that show changed their lives. Evoking conversation between family members and encouraging them to talk about secrets that were long buried and hidden. In essence…helping entire families to heal.” (more…)
February 26th, 2006 at 8:23 am
I Pride my dear Brother Tyler Perry !!!!!!!!!! I find inspiration in his story for his is very similar to mine.
Let The Lord Lead and He Will Provide !!!!!!!!!
Tyler keep the Faith! I know You will. And i am Too ! I am a 31 yo single parent who was just homeless 2 years ago ! Proud and Thankful to God I am about to earn my Doctorate in Naprapathic Medicine. Taking baby steps all the way ! Keep Inspiring me Tyler Perry.
March 4th, 2006 at 9:43 am
My husband and I attended the play Madea Goes To Jail in Indianapolis, Indiana. I laughed so hard - if there had of been room, I would have been on the floor. My husband and I are professional singers and actors as well, and I must say Mr. Perry, you are a joy and a blessing to watch. I enjoyed watching how much you were enjoying yourself. I am so proud of you. As the Homeless Veteran’s Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Vet’s Affairs, I am so proud of you for your tenacity and perserverance toward your dreams. You are an example to those who have lost hope and who are homeless - I will continue to spread the word to the homeless I encounter daily in the state of Indiana about you and where the Lord has brought you from. Would you consider partnering with me for a homeless conference in the near future, when you are able to slow down a little? Again, I am so proud of you - my husband and I were so excited, we wanted to leap from the balcony and get on the stage with you - what a blessed evening! Thank you and may success continue! God Bless and Keep you Mr. Perry.
March 6th, 2006 at 8:44 pm
I am really happy to see a black man setting examples for young men. I was watching Tyra Banks show I was really spiritually touch to see how Tyler Perry talked about the 10% that he give back to the Lord Jesus Christ. It did help me with my growth in the Lord. I hope he continue to serve the Lord with his Plays and movies Etc. I hope he never Loses his focus. I will pray for him and much success. Keep up the good work.
March 8th, 2006 at 4:36 pm
i love tyler he is such a good actor and he is a very nice guy i guess syke diary of a mad black woman was my favorite i think he made me laugh so hard that my stomach hurt he said “which half u want this half or this half cause if he gonna divorce u then u gettin half the house” and she cut the piano in half that was suppa funny. im doing a research project on you and i found out a whole lot of good things about you!i love you so much. i will be prayin 4 u and hope you keep doin well!
March 13th, 2006 at 2:41 pm
I am so proud of Tyler Perry and pray for his continued success. All of his work has such profound messages we need as African American people. One day we will wish up and remember who we are and where we came from. He gives me inspriation to not give up and continue writing and being the best me. Man Blessings
March 14th, 2006 at 11:56 pm
Tyler Perry, God, success and your very own family soon. I am thankful to God for using such an awesome vessel to get the message to us in a witty way!!! Tyler I pray for that Mighty Woman of God to show up for you. She will pray with you, praise and worship God with you and complete your life with gifts (children) from heaven. I also pray that she will serve you and your children. Lastly, she will be a giver (Kingdom,Husband,Children and Mankind)!!!! Believe and Receive It.
March 15th, 2006 at 7:54 am
Hi Mr. Perry
I am from Tinidad a small island in the Caribbean and I have recently started watching you shows, my family as well and all we have to say is thank God you did not give up.
March 15th, 2006 at 6:29 pm
Hello Mr.Perry I’M 27yrs old and I have a story for you,It’s a true story,It’s something a lot of black women are going thru and have been thru.I would like to have this story heard to open a lot of women and men eyes,If interested please email me. THANK YOU JOYCELYN BAILEY
March 20th, 2006 at 12:05 pm
I LOVE YOUR WORK AND EVERYTHING YOU DO SO, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND MAY GOD CONTINUES BLESSING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY LOVE YOU ALWAYS MS. GOODLOE
March 24th, 2006 at 1:39 pm
I have seen Madea’s Family Reunion three times in the theaters, I find something each time that I didnt see before. I love what Tyler Perry is doing, keep it up. I love the characters, and my 80 year old mother loves you too.
April 9th, 2006 at 9:53 am
Tyler,…
You are so funny… My friend wondered why you play so many parts in your movies. I said to save money… Anyway, who cares your movies are great.. And I am looking for a good looking guy so if you interested my email is listed. God bless you and I am sad I miss your show in Indy I hope and pray you decide to come back again..
Much love from a chick from Indy… Lets go on a date… much love for you…
April 9th, 2006 at 6:35 pm
HI TYLER, YPU ARE VERY PLEASENT GOD GIFTED MAND OF GOD, I CAN REALLY SEE GOD IN YOU, I LOVE YOUR PLAYS AND MOVIE, AND THE SINGING,CAUSE ME MYSELF I SING,MAYBE YOU CAN BLESSED ME ONE DAY TO ASK ME TO SING,I LOVE THE LORD AND I LOVE TO SING, SO MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALWAYS YOUR FRIEND IN CHRIST.
THOMAS
May 5th, 2006 at 8:17 pm
I saw you in Cincinnati and that was the funnest play I have ever seen. Tyler Perry you are the best. May God continue to shower you with His Blessings. Keep up the good work and please come back to Cincinnati soon. We love you here in Cincy.
September 20th, 2006 at 7:15 pm
I have a great idea tyler if you can please e-mail me that would 6e great
November 1st, 2006 at 8:36 am
dear tyler perry, i have an aproach for maybe a future play. You know how u have so many plays with either young females or adult problems. I thought it would be a great idea to do a play on young male peer pressure. i grew up in chicago all my life and is now 15. what else can i say but what a great idea this is. so far your work has been amazingly inspiring. luv ya peace
January 29th, 2007 at 4:54 pm
Dear Mr Tyler Perry
I am Tammie Faye Ambeau.
I love your show “Diery of a Mad Black” where you mentioned my name in 1 of the episodes.
I am that family member who would like to be a part of yours. My DOB is 09/18/1959 born in New Orleans LA.
Please see my picture on Vision Casting’s website - http://www.visioncasting.biz
Just to let you know - I am not looking for financial compensation.
Your reply will be greatly appreciated within 3 business days.
I would love to be a part of your show
God has put me in your path via your show “Diary Of A Mad Black”
My current contact info is:
340 North Madison Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90004
Cell: (323) 301-2136
Msg Phone: (323) 301-4235
Email: tammieambeau@yahoo.com
Thank you for your time and consideration.
GOD bless your heart and soul.
Tammie Faye Ambeau
February 18th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
To Tyler Perry,my name is Arogeanae Brown.I live on the west coast in Fresno California,I’ve been studying some African American History since the 5th grade.I’m writing to you because I need a strong advocate like yourself.My family and I read books and toured the east coast ,to study and researched on Harriet Tubman whereabouts.The reason being is because California Unified School District have very little Black History Classes.I’m in the middle of writing to Tyler Perry to request that African American coures be placed in our middle and high schools in California.I would appreciate it,if I can hear from you soon ,to get some greatly support.Thank you for taking the time to read my letter ,and if you have more time,you can contact me at home{559}2750975 or cell {559}9303743
February 19th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
Tyler Perry the man of all man. U have given me a new look at life. If I could just get a chance to sit down and talk to you, It would be like winning the lottery. I know you are a busy man and don’t have time for the little people but I will like to say thank you.
May 13th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
Dear Mr. Perry
Hi My Name is Jerek Evans and i have been watching your show and
movies and they are great. I like how you came up with these plays to teach
young ones respect and what the bible tells them, and that there is a
lord. When i saw some of the Kids in the play’ and movies made me think
that i can do it to. Because i want to help teach the right thing. I
been though some thing an the lord was there to help me. I know there a
lord and i think young teen need to know that they are not alone. I just
they got to keep there head up. Walk away from all that is hurting
you and find your power you know your strong make that step and it will
help you along. i Just want to be in one of your plays. Yes i am a good
Actor and a singer because i want to become a pasture of a church some
day but i don’t want to do it for the money or the fame.I want to do
it to help and teach other what life is about. I am a 15 Year old
African American male that lives in San Diego CA on 244 Treewood
Street, 92114 zip Here my phone # 1-619-955-9308. Please Mr. Perry
please do not Deni me like the other Director and Producer. I hope that
god touches your heart and let you who i am and that i am a bessls for
what i want to do and teach. Once more please.
Thank you
J’Erek Evans
June 6th, 2007 at 11:31 am
Hello Mr Perry
I am so glad that i didn’t give up on trying to write you I am not a good typer but I just wnated to say that I enjoy every show I saw and some of them make me cry and some make me luagh till I cry. But when you say don’t give up I like that because I am trying to go back to school and finsih my high school and it’s so hard. But I will not get up.
June 6th, 2007 at 1:39 pm
To Tyler Perry.
My name is Shannon an i live in a small town named Mainesburg. I have 4 kids two boys an twin girls. I wanted to say your movies an plays are great they make me laugh an smile. I do relate to them. I want so much to see your plays in person but i don’t know how to get tickets. I have every plays an movies that you made all but one an I’m working on that. I’m your biggest fan an some day I hope that I can meet you because you inspire me to be the way that I am.
Thank you so much
Shannon smith
July 12th, 2007 at 3:07 am
Your show would be a hit if it were not for the weak added laugh track and I’m sick and tired of people giving in to the need to add the homosexual element just reach a demographic, it’s not good and it’s not Godly. Your show would be a hit if you brought the Lord to the fore front…isn’t it Him you give “glory, honor and praise”? Are you more concerned with the acceptance of man or God? You might not publish this reply because it does not praise you and your agenda, so be it, but God is not pleased when we conform to this world (Romans 12:2)… As a Christian it would behoove you to spread the good news, the Gospel of Christ! You have the perfect opportunity to tell the world that Jesus is the way, instead you compromise… I’m sad and feel for you that you allow money, fame and status to dictate and whisper into your ear…Give the true praise and honor to Him who is worthy of it all. When I first heard of you (your plays) I was told that there was a very funny lady in a play and to my surprise you end up being a man dressing and acting like a woman…I didn’t like it when Flip Wilson, Richard Pryor, Eddie Murphy, Martin Lawrence and all of the others dress up like a woman and I don’t like it that you are doing it! Why not get a woman to be a woman? You have the ability to promote the true home, come from the heart, show the reality and not play it down or pass it off as a joke. Last week while in N.C. visiting with friends we watched the marathon and I thought I could give in and enjoy your program them you added “Walter” and sunk all chances of me liking and watching “House of Payne” which is more like “House of Pain”.
July 20th, 2007 at 8:34 am
Hello Mr. Perry,
My Name is Dyrell Lewis, i am currently living in West Palm Beach, FL. I am an aspiring writer, i have a great idea as far as film goes and i just wanted a little advice please email me so that i could explain. Thank you
July 27th, 2007 at 12:00 am
YOU ROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOCK! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
GO TYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYLER
August 20th, 2007 at 2:37 pm
Where do I begin? There aren`t many people that have a bottomless Love and when I hear the songs and watch the story lines the words of wisdom and laugh until I can hardly breathe. I just shake my head Tyler. Continue to stand strong mighty warrior. K-Love. Karen
September 13th, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Tyler i have seen all your plays and movies. I love them and i look at them over and over again. You are a inspiration to young children as well as adults. I wish there was a real madea in sight so i can get to be around her. But don’t worry Tyler you make her seem all real. I love her, and you too. Keep up the good work,and inspiration and knowledge to us all.
September 14th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
TYLER YOU ARE THE MAN.I LOVE YOU. I HOPE ONE DAY WE CAN MEET.
October 16th, 2007 at 4:20 am
Tyler Perry,
I don’t know if you really take the time out to read the fan mail that you recieve of people who evidently love and admire your good works I’m hoping you do. To begin, I’d like to reinerate that you are lifted, gifted, and talented by the most loving God. Your message is being spread all over the world and touches each individual who watches your plays and movies. I write because I have an idea. I’ve tried to contact a man that you may know, a well known choreographer from my home town and I’ve spoken with a young woman whose currently performing in one of broadways plays, also from where I live (names I won’t mention). The idea is to re-do an updated version of the screen play, “The Wiz” (co-starring Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Tedd Ross, and (?). That movie, if watched over and over again, actually is fun and entertaining to watch, but after awhile I learned that it offers a life’s lesson of how to presevere through this sickened world that we live in and in the end find yourself so that you can move on in life. I’m telling you, it would be worth your while to produce such a movie as that! Think about it. Much more blessings on your success, Bev.
October 18th, 2007 at 10:15 am
may God bless you and your family, keep up the good work
October 20th, 2007 at 12:29 am
my cousin riki kennedy told me he knew you he passed 12/11/2006 wanted u to know. karen
October 29th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
Thursday, October 18, 2007 8:45 AM CDT
Black film apparent target of sabotage on opening weekend
By Kenya Vaughn Of the St. Louis American
Even before Why Did I Get Married opened, Tyler Perry talked candidly about his struggle to get his film released in a number of theatres comparable to his mainstream counterparts and other apparent attempts to undermine its success on its opening weekend.
I went to see the film on Sunday night at my regular theatre (Wehrenberg’s Jamestown 14 Cine) and had an interesting experience.
When my ticket was torn, the man working the door said, “We Own The Night is in auditorium three.” I told him that I didn’t buy a ticket to We Own the Night, but to Why Did I Get Married. He said, “It’s fine, just go on in.”
After informing him that I didn’t want another film to get credit for Tyler Perry’s sale, he said, “Fair enough, wait here” and brought back a stub from Why Did I get Married.
When I arrived in the theatre, a woman who asked not to be identified said, “Girl, make sure that your ticket says ‘Tyler Perry’ because mine said We Own Night. My friend said that it happened to her yesterday. They been tryin’ to be shady all weekend.”
I was not the only one. Neither was she. There was a bit of commotion as people looked at their tickets and, sure enough, their tickets didn’t say what they thought it said.
The concerned patron who attempted to school me on the error went to the manager and he said that it was a mistake. “Well, I ain’t never seen them make this kind of mistake before,” the woman said. In the 20 years I had been patronizing the Jamestown 14 Cine, neither had I.
A bold, matter-of-fact woman, she went to the manager and insisted that he make an announcement in the theater.
His message regarding the cause of the “mix-up” was unclear, but he told the audience that they were welcome to come to the box office and get their ticket changed. But when the film was over, the box office was closed.
By the time the office opened Monday, someone had already called the American to voice concerns regarding a similar incident at the same theatre.
Quinton Pittman, an attendant of The Wehrenberg theatre in St. Charles, conveyed his disdain via e-mail.
“I took my lady to see Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married yesterday in St. Charles at the Wehrenberg Theatre on 1st Capitol. I glanced at my ticket stubs. Why was I sold tickets to Resident Evil”? Pittman wrote. He said that he talked with the usher and management and decided to contact Werhrenberg Offices.
“To add further insult to this injury, when I called the home office of Wehrenberg Theatres to complain, I was directed to Linda Curbell (Guest Services) who told me, ‘The only way you’re going to get ticket stubs to that movie is to get them out of the trash,’” Pittman said.
He said that Curbell refused to take his complaint formally and brushed him off with a nasty attitude.
“Had it been Harry Potter, Spiderman or Barney Goes to Jail, they would have fixed it right then and there,” Pittman said. “My conscience is burning because they were being racist - period. They are stealing money from Tyler Perry’s movie.”
“It was a mistake, and we’re looking into it,” Kelly Hoskins said in an abrasive and condescending tone when I called Wehrenberg’s corporate offices and asked about the incidents. She also said that the theatres installed new ticketing systems that might have contributed to the error.
Shawn Ellens went to St. Louis Mills (which is not a Wehrenberg theatre) to see the movie. According to her, she waited for more than 20 minutes from the original 6:45 p.m. start time to see Why Did I get Married.
She said the film then was screened out of focus and with the actors’ heads cut off. They stopped the film to resolve the issue and left guests waiting.
“When it finally got up, the film had already started and we had missed part of it,” Ellens said.
After people started complaining, they offered passes to see another film.
“I had never experienced that type of problem before,” Ellens said. “While I can only speculate (regarding motive), 99.9 percent of the people in there were black.”
Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married opened at the top of the box office with $21.5 million.
Ellens says that she rarely goes to see a movie on the first weekend, but as a fan of Perry, she wanted to make sure he had a strong finish.
“Even with all of that trifling behavior, he still came out number one,” Ellen said.
“I’m tickled pink, and I wish we could get word to him what happened here in St. Louis.”