Tyler Perry to produce, write and direct shows for Oprah Winfrey’s OWNPosted by Wilson Morales
October 1, 2012
Tyler Perry, whose longstanding friendship with Oprah Winfrey has resulted in some collaborations, including executive producing Lee Daniels’ Oscar nominated film, ‘Precious.’ will once again work together.
The Oprah Winfrey Network and Tyler Perry announced an exclusive multiyear deal in which the actor, director, screenwriter, playwright and producer will develop OWN series and projects, including two new scripted series to premiere in the middle of 2013. Perry will executive produce, write and direct both series.
The pact, which will mark OWN’s first segue into original scripted programming, will make the network the “singular destination” for original TV output from the Madea mastermind.
“I have been looking forward to the day when we would be in the position to enter the world of scripted television. That day has come,” blurbs Oprah Winfrey. “We are all energized by the opportunity to collaborate with Tyler who has a proven track record for producing highly successful cable series. He has an incredible ability to illuminate life stories and characters in his unique voice and inspires and encourages people all over the world.”
Perry’s TV ventures thus far have included “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne,” “Meet the Browns” and “For Better or Worse.” His most recent film, the double possessive “Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection” took in over $65 million domestic this summer. He’ll be seen in an acting-only capacity this fall in “Alex Cross.”
“It’s a dream realized to partner with Oprah and bring scripted programming to OWN,” Perry states. “She has accomplished so much with the network and I’m excited to work with her to be a part of its continued growth.”
Adds Discover Communications President and CEO David Zaslav, “Bringing Tyler Perry exclusively to OWN is a major coup. Today’s announcement demonstrates the power of the Oprah brand to attract some of the biggest names in television and film to OWN. OWN’s growth over the past nine months has been nothing short of phenomenal and, with the continued support of our advertising and affiliate partners, this bold move into scripted entertainment positions OWN to continue that momentum going forward.”
