-Natalee Gilbert-

Cousins!

Tyler Perry recently unveiled that he Lepley’s faith at the forefront of his 330-acre studio after discovering its dark past!

 His studio is built on a former Confederate army base, which in Perry’s words, had people fighting to keep his ancestors enslaved. After walking on the land site, the filmmaker said he felt a bit spooked out. 

He told AARP, “From the moment I walked onto the property, I was haunted by it. So, as we built each of the 12 soundstages, we buried Bibles underneath them to refocus the spirit of the place.” 

Having the Word of God around made him feel more at ease. Perry is the first African-American to own this cited land. Since having Tyler Perry Studios in his possession, he’s built 12 sound stages which are named after several influential black actors and actresses. The multi-talented creative also provides jobs at his studio for individuals struggling to find work under certain circumstances.

( 📸: Biography.com )

He continues,  

“Thousands of people come through the gate every day to work here. And it’s a beautiful thing. A lot of them are former prisoners who wouldn’t have had this shot.”

Since 2019, Tyler has created a slew of films and shows that showcase the truer meaning of black excellence. The Madea star conducted a church service and gospel brunch during its grand opening. The service took place at a replica church of the sanctuary featured in “The Color Purple.” The Clark Sisters and a gospel choir let their voices be heard. Meanwhile, Bishop T.D. Jakes gave the crowd a sermon. 

Gospel music artists like Bebe and Cece Winans, David and Tamela Mann, Pastor John Grey, and Kirk Franklin came to show their support. Whoopi Goldberg, Halle Berry, Denzel Washington, Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, Samuel L. Jackson, Jay Z, Beyonce, and Patti Labelle were in attendance as well. 

Cousins, do you think Perry’s method is keeping the devil at bay?