Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry, born Emmitt Perry Jr. on September 13, 1969, is a multi-talented African-American artist renowned as an actor, director, playwright, screenwriter, producer, author, songwriter, and entrepreneur.

Perry's journey began in Southern theater, where he gained recognition before achieving national fame in 2005 with the release of his groundbreaking film, *Diary of a Mad Black Woman*. His iconic portrayal of Madea—a resilient and optimistic matriarch—catapulted him to stardom and solidified his status as one of the most respected figures in Hollywood. The success of the "Madea" series garnered both critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Beyond film, Perry has produced numerous television series and has established a long-running partnership with the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). In a significant milestone, he opened Tyler Perry Studios in Georgia, becoming one of the few African Americans to own a major film studio.

Perry's impactful contributions to the arts earned him a spot on Time's list of the 100 most influential people in 2020, and in 2022, he was honored with induction into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame. Through his work, Perry continues to inspire and uplift audiences while breaking barriers in the entertainment industry.