Exhibit featuring Tyler Perry’s work and life to debut at Tubman Museum in Macon

Tyler Perry’s life and career have been an inspiration to so many, and now, his journey will be on full display at the Tubman African American Museum.

Making its debut in Feb. 2023, the exhibit will give viewers a one-of-kind look into Perry’s life – even going back to him watching the Oprah Winfrey show, which was a big inspiration in his journey to becoming a writer. The exhibit will even take a look at Perry’s roots, growing up in Louisiana, where it tackles the tough subject of years of abuse by his father, causing him to slip into depression. From that dark period of his life, Perry found inspiration and used his talent to create relatable characters. While there were many ups and downs along the way, the museum’s objective is to showcase his story.

“The exhibit will enlighten a lot of people about parts of Mr. Perry’s life that they, most likely, didn’t know,” said Mark E. Swinton, Senior V.P of scripted programming at Tyler Perry’s studios. “You know, he is a big celebrity and a public figure, but as you walk in [to the exhibit], you’ll get a sense of who he is today and what his journey was like.”

Executive Director of the Tubman Museum, Harold Young, recognizes the significant impact and influence Perry’s work has had and continuously has on African Americans. Young even goes as far as stating that Perry possesses characteristics that remind him of the late, great Harriet Tubman. “Tyler Perry’s life is comparable to Harriet Tubman - once you overcome something, you can elevate someone, bring them up with you,” Young explained. “Our museum focuses on the art, history, and culture of black people, and this is what Tyler Perry is all about. He’s an artist, and there’s a history being made that he brings out in his movies, plays, and shows.”

With 20 stage plays, 17 feature films, several television shows and a New York Times bestseller, it’s no wonder Perry’s life and story are being honored by the Tubman Museum. “This exhibit will be there to inspire people from all walks of life, and the team at Tyler Perry Studios is committed; we want to do this, and we’re excited to be part of something that will inform and uplift,” says Swinton. “I think Mr. Perry’s life will resonate with people – whether they’re rich or poor, African American or not – they’ll be able to walk away and take something from this.”

The Tyler Perry exhibit will be making its debut at the Tubman Museum in Feb. 2023 and will remain on display for two years.