Early Life and Education of Tyler Perry: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 14, 2025

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Tyler Perry. From birth to education, explore key events.

Tyler Perry is a multifaceted American entertainer, excelling as an actor, filmmaker, and playwright. He is most recognized for creating and portraying Mabel "Madea" Simmons, a strong-willed elderly woman, alongside other characters like Joe and Brian Simmons. Perry's filmography includes both traditionally filmed movies and adaptations of his live stage plays. Madea debuted in his 1999 Chicago stage play, 'I Can Do Bad All by Myself,' marking the beginning of a significant and impactful career in entertainment.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

September 13, 1969: Tyler Perry's birth

On September 13, 1969, Emmitt Perry Jr., known professionally as Tyler Perry, was born. He is an American actor, filmmaker, and playwright.

Others born on this day/year

1990: Moves to Atlanta

Around 1990, Tyler Perry moved to Atlanta.

2007: Perry Buys Buckhead Estate

In 2007, Tyler Perry bought a 17-acre estate in the Paces neighborhood of Buckhead, Atlanta.

July 20, 2009: Sponsorship of Children's Visit to Disney World

On July 20, 2009, Tyler Perry sponsored 65 children from a Philadelphia day camp to visit Walt Disney World, after they were shunned by a swim club. Perry wanted them to know that for every act of evil, there are many more acts of kindness.

December 8, 2009: Death of Willie Maxine Perry

On December 8, 2009, Tyler Perry's mother, Willie Maxine Perry, died at age 64 following an illness.

August 2010: Purchase of Dean Gardens

In August 2010, it was reported that Tyler Perry had purchased Dean Gardens, a 58-acre estate in Johns Creek, Atlanta. He later tore down the existing mansion.

2013: Purchase of Land in Douglas County, Georgia

In 2013, Tyler Perry's company, ETPC LLC, purchased around 1,100 acres in the New Manchester area of Douglas County, Georgia.

November 30, 2014: Birth of Son, Aman

On November 30, 2014, Tyler Perry's partner Gelila Bekele gave birth to their son, Aman.

May 2016: Sale of Buckhead Estate

In May 2016, Tyler Perry sold his 17-acre estate in Buckhead, Atlanta, for $17.5 million, closing the biggest deal ever for a private home in the Georgia capital.

September 2017: Purchase of House in Mulholland Estates

In September 2017, Tyler Perry purchased a house in Mulholland Estates, a gated community in Los Angeles. He sold the property nine months later for $15.6 million.

March 2020: Perry Provides Support to Duke and Duchess of Sussex

In March 2020, Tyler Perry provided security and housing for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for three months, allowing them to relocate safely from Canada to California.

December 2020: Perry Announces He Is A Bachelor

In December 2020, Tyler Perry announced that he was a bachelor.

March 7, 2021: Duke and Duchess of Sussex Interview

On March 7, 2021, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle revealed in an interview that Tyler Perry provided them with initial security and housing for three months when they relocated to California in March 2020.