February 2009 | blackfilm.com

February 2009

TYLER PERRY NEWS

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TYLER PERRY NEWS
Perry wants Diana Ross to star in next film

February 8, 2009

While doing press rounds to promote his newest film, 'Madea Goes To Jail', which opens on February 20, producer-writer-director Tyler Perry discussed how he wanted music industry legend Diana Ross for an upcoming feature.

Tyler Perry: ... Print This: Tyler Perry is after Diana Ross! I laid off (from approaching her) because I didn't want to be arrested, but I was sending flowers and everything. I just have to get the right cast. She would be a major part of the film, along with Ben Kingsley, Cicely Tyson, and Kimberly Elise; and myself and someone else. I'm no closer to getting it done.

Is the script ready?

TP: The script is done. I wrote it in 1995. I have to do a rewrite, and I don't do rewrites.

Do you have a title for the film?

TP: 'A Jazz Man's Blues.'

Are you stalking her?

TP: Yes, Tyler Perry is stalking Diana Ross. I want her in the film. I've been sending flowers. I've been sending people by her. I've been sending emails to people who know her. I've talked to the man who walks her dog. I've been trying to locate where she's at. Is she in this part of the country? Is she doing a concert somewhere? Can I get backstage? Tyler Perry is stalking Diana Ross.

Didn't you reach out to her daughter, Traci Ellis Ross, when she did your film, 'Daddy's Little Girls?'

TP: I had Traci in the movie, but I'm afraid I will have to go younger. I may have to go and get the baby (actor Evan Ross). If I get him in the film, then she'll come.

Why Diana?

TP: Because we haven't seen her act in a long time, and because of what she brought to 'Lady Sings the Blues.' My film is set around 1947, around that same time. I would love to let people know how powerful an actress she is.

Is the film set in stone with the names you mentioned?

TP: These are the people I want and until I get them, I won't put the movie on the books.

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