Over the holidays, I watched Tyler Perry’s new movie, “Maxine’s Baby: The Tyler Perry Story.” It’s fascinating to see how entrepreneurs from different cultures operate. The contrast between white and black entrepreneurs is striking. Many black entrepreneurs I know start with no teams, funding, or investors, just grassroots efforts. This might explain why financial success is challenging, as many of us do most of the work ourselves.
There’s also a lack of support for black businesses, unfortunately even in the community, with expectations of discounts and special treatment that aren’t sustainable for a successful business. Tyler Perry has been criticized for how he runs his business, like keeping control and not hiring help for writing. But he’s focused on serving an audience long ignored by Hollywood, proving them wrong, and becoming a revolutionary figure.
Perry has a unique blend of creative and business acumen, achieving success on both fronts. His decision to set up his studios in Atlanta was brilliant, not only because he could, tap into an audience and a city eager for more than just music in entertainment. He was also protected from Hollywood and the movie industry which has kept Black power talent at bay since the beginning of the industry. Had he gone the Hollywood route, it certainly would have been disappointing, as Hollywood seems indifferent towards him. Even when Spike Lee criticized him, Perry took the high road and responded by dedicating a studio to Lee at Tyler Perry Studios.
Perry’s journey from a tough childhood to becoming a billionaire is nothing short of miraculous and inspirational. I once had a chance to speak to him in Atlanta when we were at the same gym right next to each other on the treadmill, but whenever I am in close proximity to celebrities I always think of how they get little peace because of all the people clamoring for them and I never wanted to be that guy.
His story, particularly as a black male entrepreneur with limited support, is motivational. His story, like McDonald’s story, “The Founder” is incredibly inspiring. What he’s achieved, almost single-handedly, is remarkable, and he’s just getting started.
