(Post photo credit: atlantafi.com)
So, we are two weeks out from Tyler Perry’s grand opening of the Tyler Perry Studios and I am still feeling this euphoria. It was just a few months back that Tyler shared the epic line “If they won’t give you a seat at the table, build your own table!” (Oh, and he has built the table, chairs, and houses in case you missed it)
Tyler Perry BET 2019 ICON Speech
Tyler has dealt with failures, criticism and plenty of obstacles on his journey which has fueled his continual press towards something greater. Something greater includes giving honor and showing respect in a time when honor and respect have been blurred by politics and money, Tyler has reset the bar of excellence. As a single mother of four, I can’t thank him enough for that.
So this “ICON” title goes a bit further than having some movies and doing a few plays. ☺️ Tyler has etched legacies in stone and shifted the status quo in our favor. There are five things that he has done that absolutely took him over the top when it comes to iconic behavior.
1. Naming the sound stages after current and previous amazing African Americans
It is no secret that the African American culture has, and continues to have, little to no idea of our true history. Let’s be honest, even certain states have replaced slavery in the history books as indentured servitude. Our lineage are forgotten memories, many of which lay buried in graves or turned into tourist locations. Tyler holds the light in the darkness encouraging us not to forget.
It is through his studios that he is making sure that light never goes out.
2. Naming a sound stage after Spike Lee
“This is bigger than us” is what rings through my ears. Even after being torn down by another, Tyler saw the bigger picture and chose to go higher. It bring to mind the old saying we were taught in bible school classes as children.
Treat others how you want to be treated.
Tyler did just that. He looked beyond the words and gave honor to a man that opened many doors for African Americans in film. Movies like Malcolm X, Crooklyn, Do the Right Thing, and Jungle Fever sparked conversations during family gathers. That needed to be honored and etched in stone.
3. We all rise when one rises up!
This one honestly brought tears to my eyes. Tyler created his own walks of fame throughout the Tyler Perry Studios. From framed photographs in the halls to the stars where he honored actors and actresses that he has worked with. Tyler, recently received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. I still can’t clearly figure out how people are chosen to receive a star but it is an honor to have one.
This was a huge surprise to the actors and actresses. It was also a heartfelt fist in the air that reiterated his statement of creating your own table. Oh the World was watching sliding their fists up in solidarity.
4. Laughter is like a good medicine
Tyler has made a commitment to making the world laugh, smile, cry and talk through his plays, movies, and television shows. Like it or not, you’ve had a conversation about his creative blueprint at some point. (If you haven’t, you can definitely have one in the comments) Families have come together an watched them and good friends have sat on the phone giving critiques.
I think that at this point we can name it Tylerverse … yup that’s it. Tylerverse have taken over.
5. Opportunities are everywhere
Tyler has spoken openly about doors that closed in his face and those that he had to create in order to be successful. Because of his experiences, Tyler posts opportunities on his website and has created a large amount of dream jobs. You know, like being in a movie or on television. He also employs 8,000 + people.
Uh…talk about stimulating the economy. Sheesh! In a time when people are losing jobs left and right because of huge retail closures, he is building. I just may have to go see about a spot on a show. 🤔
I think it’s safe to say that my title was spot on here but I do know there are varying options. There are some who criticize the messages he talks about in his shows or the way African Americans are portrayed. People have a right to their opinion but I always ask myself…so why don’t they go out and do their own shows. In today’s world we can create our own show through Netflix, YouTube, Bet 1 or Hulu.
Be the change you want to see in the world!
Have you checked out any of Tyler Perry’s shows, movies or plays? Which was, or is, your favorite?
With over ten years of writing, Altovise uses her platforms to create opportunities for women to have their voice heard. Founder of the World Voice League, she educates and empowers through courses, a weekly accountability call, blogging, books and the #SpeakEasy Podcast.
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