Tyler Perry is an American filmmaker, actor, producer, director, screenwriter, and billionaire media entrepreneur best known for creating the legendary Madea character and for founding Tyler Perry Studios. His journey from homelessness to building a billion-dollar entertainment empire is one of the most inspirational success stories in modern Hollywood.
Through faith-driven storytelling, family-centered themes, and full creative ownership, Perry has reshaped independent film and television while inspiring millions around the world.
Quick Bio:
- Full Name: Emmitt Perry Jr.
- Stage Name: Tyler Perry
- Date of Birth: September 13, 1969
- Age: 56 years (2025)
- Birthplace: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: Actor, Producer, Director, Screenwriter, Entrepreneur
- Height: 6 ft 5 in (196 cm)
- Net Worth: $1.4 Billion+
- Famous For: Madea franchise, Tyler Perry Studios
Family & Background
- Father: Emmitt Perry Sr.
- Mother: Willie Maxine Perry
- Siblings: Yulanda Wilkins, Melva Porter, Emmbre Perry
- Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Tyler Perry was raised in a difficult household and endured a painful childhood that deeply influenced his writing style. He later changed his first name to separate himself from those memories, using writing as emotional healing and spiritual strength.
Education
- School: High school in New Orleans
- College: Did not attend college
- Education Type: Self-taught filmmaker and writer
Without formal film school training, Perry taught himself storytelling through practice, studying scripts, and performing in church theaters and community venues.
Marriage, Partner & Children
- Marital Status: Unmarried
- Former Partner: Gelila Bekele
- Son: Aman Tyler Perry (born 2014)
Career Journey
Perry wrote his first play I Know I’ve Been Changed in the early 1990s. Its initial failure left him homeless, but his refusal to quit led him to tour churches, where his storytelling began to attract a devoted following.
He later introduced Madea — a bold grandmother character inspired by strong women in his family — which became one of the most successful comedy franchises in American cinema.
Tyler Perry Studios
In 2019, Perry opened Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, a 330-acre production campus with more than 40 sound stages, making him the first Black person to fully own a major Hollywood studio.
Tyler Perry Social Media Handles
- Instagram: @tylerperry
- X (Twitter): @tylerperry
- Facebook: Tyler Perry (Official Page)
Net Worth & Income Sources
- Net Worth: $1.4 Billion+ (Estimated)
- Main Income: Film & Television Production
- Other Income: Studio rentals, Streaming deals, Publishing, Real estate
Awards & Achievements
- Honorary Academy Award (Oscar) – 2021
- TIME 100 Most Influential People
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
- Over $1 billion in worldwide box-office earnings
Trivia
- He once lived in his car while struggling to finance his plays.
- Madea was inspired by his mother and aunt.
- He owns 100% of his film and TV catalog.
- Tyler Perry Studios is built on a former Confederate army base.
Tyler Perry FAQs
How old is Tyler Perry?
He is 56 years old as of 2026.
What is Tyler Perry’s date of birth?
He was born on September 13, 1969.
How tall is Tyler Perry?
Tyler Perry’s height is 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm).
Who is Tyler Perry’s wife?
Tyler Perry is not married. He was previously in a long-term relationship with Gelila Bekele.
Does Tyler Perry have children?
Yes. He has one son named Aman Tyler Perry.
What is Tyler Perry famous for?
He is best known for creating the Madea franchise and owning Tyler Perry Studios.
What is Tyler Perry’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is $1.4 billion+.
