From the vibrant streets of Oakland, California, a star was taking shape. Born on July 8, 1981, Lance Gross did not merely embrace fate; he sculpted it. Infused with a burning passion for the performing arts since his boyhood, Lance set his sights high and unwavering. His trajectory led him straight to the hallowed halls of Howard University, where theater wasn’t just a course but a calling. Here, he meticulously chiseled away at his craft, laying the bedrock for what would soon blossom into a commendable cinematic journey. By the way, while we’re setting the stage, let’s not shy away from numbers: Lance Gross boasts a net worth of $1.5 million, as per CelebrityNetWorth. Quite the figure, wouldn’t you say?
Career Highlights & Accolades
LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 26: Actor Lance Gross, winner Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for “Tyler Perry’s House of Payne,” poses in the press room during the 41st NAACP Image awards held at The Shrine Auditorium on February 26, 2010 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images for NAACP)
Lance’s on-screen magnetism is undeniable. His debut role in Tyler Perry’s House of Payne showcased his ability to blend humor, depth, and a dash of drama all into one stellar performance. But his compelling performance in films like Our Family Wedding and Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor solidified his stature in Hollywood. Gross, with his flair for authentic storytelling, demands your attention and doesn’t let go. Over the years, awards weren’t just handed to him. They seemed magnetically drawn, as if saying, “Lance, your shelf looks a tad empty.”
Personal Life & Highlights
SANTA MONICA, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 09: (L-R) Berkeley Gross, Lennon Gross, and Lance Gross attend the Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards 2022 at Barker Hangar on April 09, 2022 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Momodu Mansaray/WireImage)
Behind the camera lights and beneath the glamour, Lance remains a mosaic of intricate personal tales. A devoted husband to the stunning fashion stylist Rebecca Jefferson and a doting father, Lance doesn’t just play heartwarming roles; he lives them. Their lavish wedding in 2015 and subsequent birth of their daughter became delightful snippets for fans. They adore the private side of this public figure. Perhaps it’s his Piscean affinity or simply an innate trait, but Lance’s ability to stay grounded amidst stardom’s whirlwind is truly commendable.
Business Ventures & Philanthropy
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA – MAY 26: (L-R) Terrence J amd :ance Gross attend Prime Video hosts Black Excellence Brunch for “Emergency” Celebrating Brotherhood hosted by special guest Terrence J at 1010 Wine and Events on May 26, 2022 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images)
While his cinematic ventures spellbind audiences, Lance’s off-screen endeavors are equally enchanting. Entrepreneurship beckoned, and Lance responded. He launched a luxury eyewear brand, which seemed a natural progression given his impeccable style. But his success isn’t just stored in bank vaults. His heart, equally vast, has channeled wealth into uplifting communities. A staunch advocate for youth development, Lance has tirelessly worked towards enriching lives, ensuring his success story isn’t an isolated tale but a beacon for countless others.
Malik Yoba, a name that resonates with many film and television fans, has made significant strides in the entertainment industry. As of 2023, his net worth stands at an impressive $4 million US dollars, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But how did he amass such wealth? Born Abdul-Malik Kashie Yoba on September 17, 1967, in the Bronx, New York, Malik was the fourth of six children. His parents, Mahmoudah Young Lanier and Abdullah Yoba, watched as their son embarked on a journey that would eventually make him a household name.
Rise To Stardom
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MARCH 31: Actor Malik Yoba attends DailyMail.com presents DNCE on March 31, 2016 at The Cutting Room in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for DailyMail.com)
Malik’s breakthrough came in 1993 when he portrayed Yul Brenner in the sports comedy Cool Runnings. This film, based on the true story of the Jamaican Bobsled team’s journey to the 1988 Olympics, was both a critical and box office success. But this was just the beginning. In 1994, Malik made history with the FOX police drama New York Undercover. Alongside his co-star, they became the first duo of Color to lead an American police drama. This role solidified his place in TV history and earned him three consecutive NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series from 1996 to 1998.
Diverse Roles & Accolades
NEW YORK – OCTOBER 28: Actors Samuel L. Jackson and Malik Yoba. Attend the premiere of “Soul Men” at the Apollo Theater on October 28, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Jim Spellman/WireImage)
Throughout his career, Malik showcased his versatility by taking on a variety of roles. This ranged from his appearance in the comedy series Arrested Development as a bounty hunter passionate about party planning to his recurring role in the UPN sitcom Girlfriends. Malik proved time and again his acting prowess. His collaboration with Tyler Perry in the film Why Did I Get Married? and its sequel further cemented his reputation in the industry. Moreover, his roles in series like Alphas, Empire, and Designated Survivor showcased his ability to adapt and excel in different genres.
Personal Life & Ventures
NEW YORK – MARCH 31: (L-R) Malik Yoba and Janet Jackson visit BET’s “106 & Park” at BET Studios. On March 31, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
In recent years, Malik has continued to shine. He joined the cast of the Netflix drama Seven Seconds in 2018. This further expanded his impressive portfolio. With guest appearances on popular TV shows like Blue Bloods, First Wives Club, The Twilight Zone, and The Good Wife, Malik’s star shows no signs of dimming. Further, away from the limelight, Malik is a family man. He tied the knot with actress Cat Wilson in 2003, and the couple is blessed with three children: Pria, Dena, and Josiah Yoba.
Conclusion
WASHINGTON, DC – NOVEMBER 16: Actor Malik Yoba (L) and singer V. Bozeman speak on stage at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund 27th Annual Awards Gala at the Washington Hilton on November 16, 2015 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Thurgood Marshall College Fund)
Malik Yoba’s net worth of $4 million in 2023 is a testament to his dedication, talent, and hard work. From his early days in the Bronx to his current status as a celebrated actor, Malik’s journey inspires many. As he continues to grace our screens, one thing is certain: Malik Yoba’s legacy in the entertainment industry is firmly established.
Paramount Global has announced that the majority stake for BET Media Group, including VH1, BET cable network, and BET+ streaming service, is no longer up for sale. This is a massive blow to potential buyers such as Tyler Perry and other prominent figures in the entertainment industry. Paramount Calls Off BET Sale On August 16, […]
Media mogul Tyler Perry recently offered a $100k reward for information leading to an arrest in the murder of Josiah Robinson— a close friend of Beyoncé’s publicist Yvette Noel-Schure.
In a heart wrenching endearing post on his Instagram page—Perry pleaded for help. Perry wrote:
A few days ago I got an extremely heartbreaking phone call from my friend, Yvette Noel-Schure. Through her tears and grief she was telling me that in her home country of Grenada, a young man that was like a son to her was murdered. My soul ached as she shared that he was a young, gifted singer who was murdered because he was gay. My mind immediately went to Mathew Shepard, and all the other victims of racist, homophobic, antisemitic, xenophobic, senseless violence. This kid was 23, how is this ok? His mother is devastated. This pain is too common – the same pain of Marcia Williams, who I’ve been trying to help to find out what happened to her son Terrance in Collier County, Florida for years now. The pain of not knowing can be crippling. It’s the pain that my sister and I carry not knowing what truly happened to my 25-year-old nephew, who we were told hung himself in prison just 3 years ago. The pain of not knowing is truly gut-wrenching. So with that said, Yvette and I are offering a $100,000 dollar reward to anyone who brings forth information that leads to the conviction of the murderer of Josiah “Jonty” Robinson. Please pray for his mother and Yvette and all of those that loved him, as well as every family who has been impacted by senseless violence.
Anyone with any information can call The Criminal Investigation Division at this number. +1-473-440 3921
You can remain anonymous @yvettenoelschure
In a post dedicated to her ‘Jonty’, Yvette Noel Schure wrote:
My Dearest JONTY. How? How has it been a month since you were so brutally taken from us? It just feels dark without your light. It seems unreal but the soreness in my heart tells me how real it is. I pray you are at peace and that you are doing a Jab Jab waltz in Heaven. I miss your smile, your voice, your dancing feet. Thank you beautiful @nilotic.ny for these precious videos. #justiceforjonty #jontyforever #jontydream @josiah_gnd
Tyler Perry has become one of the most revered entertainment industry icons. He boasts a highly successful three-decade career covering both the stage and the screen. Perry’s work spans a multitude of plays, movies, genres, and formats, and when he’s not behind the camera, he’s right in front of it. From theatrical characters to one very lovable slapstick favorite, there’s very little he cannot portray.
The filmmaker is also the recipient of numerous accolades. He is widely regarded as a formidable entity in the Black community. His most exceptional moments of recognition include receiving the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award from the Academy Awards, as well as being inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame. Perry also may just become the next owner of Black Entertainment Television (BET). His contributions to Black entertainment as a whole have been truly exceptional over the years.
Difficult Childhood & Early Beginnings
Before finding success with his plays and movies, Tyler Perry suffered a rollercoaster of emotions as a child. He has been very vocal about the many traumas he endured during his youth. Born Emmitt Perry Jr., he would later change his name at 16 to Tyler in order to distance himself from his abusive, alcoholic father. Perry revealed that his father beat him constantly and was sexually abusive to others. Furthermore, Perry himself was the victim of sexual abuse by numerous adults in his life.
His only source of refuge from the many pains he suffered was going to church with his mother every week. The church has become an active part of many of Tyler Perry’s movies, series, and plays. A DNA test later revealed that Emmitt Perry Sr. was not Tyler’s biological father. After a rough upbringing, the media titan found solace in writing in his twenties, which led to his first successful play, I Know I’ve Been Changed.
Tyler Perry’s Breakthrough
By the early nineties, Tyler Perry worked tirelessly to get his plays in front of the right audiences. In September 1999, Perry debuted the now-beloved character Mable “Madea” Simmons. Madea would later become a cultural icon and a staple of Black cinema. The character has appeared in over 20 productions across film, television, and on stage, as well as animated projects.
His first movie, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, is a cult classic, especially among African American households. From 2006 onwards, Perry began to both direct and write successful films. His most notable films as a director, writer, and producer include: Daddy’s Little Girls, Why Did I Get Married?, I Can Do All Bad By Myself, For Colored Girls, Acrimony, and A Fall From Grace. Perry also co-produced the Oscar-winning drama Precious alongside Lee Daniels and longtime friend and partner Oprah Winfrey.
Partnership With Oprah
In 2012, Tyler Perry partnered with Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) to create multiple scripted television programs for the network. The most popular series he’s created for OWN is undoubtedly The Haves and the Have Nots, which ran for eight seasons and 196 episodes between 2013 and 2021. The Haves and the Have Nots was a huge success for the network, and was praised for its highly inclusive casting diversity.
Tyler Perry Studios
Perry is the founder and owner of Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest film production studios in the United States. With over $900 million in revenue, Perry cemented himself as a leading job producer in Atlanta and the U.S. The studio has accommodated the filming of some highly successful blockbusters over the years. Scenes from the movies Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Red Notice, and A Jazzman’s Blues were shot in Tyler Perry Studios. The upcoming Blade movie featuring Mahershala Ali will also have scenes shot in the famous studio.
Life Outside Of Entertainment
Tyler Perry has been very open about his personal life while staying relatively private. Themes of forgiveness, love, and grace heavily influenced his earlier works. While his newer projects still maintain many of these themes, they’re much more expansive today. However, most of his work still shows his love for the Black church. Tyler Perry is a devout Christian. Additionally, Perry dated Ethiopian model Gelila Bekele from 2009 until 2020. Together, they share a son, Aman Tyler Perry. The media mogul is also a supporter of many charities and has been noted for his many philanthropic contributions and endeavors.
Tyler Perry has finalized a groundbreaking deal to purchase BET Networks, the prominent Black Entertainment Television network. This acquisition grants Perry control over BET Media Group, including VH1. Perry already owns a minority stake in the streaming service BET+. TV and film mogul Tyler Perry has recently finalized a deal to purchase a majority stake […]
Entertainment mogul (and Gone Girl standout) Tyler Perry, who has been recognized by Forbes as a billionaire and who pulled off one of the first successful production bubbles during the pandemic, is the subject of a recent report on BET that hasn’t checked out as valid.
However, signs do point towards the Madea creator potentially buying BET. In April, Perry went on record with Entertainment Tonight in response to louder-than-whispers assertions that he would soon take the cable channel from CBS/Paramount Global. Perry has, of course, long since been whipping up multiple series (including Ruthless and Bruh) for BET, and he made it clear that his desire to full-on own BET wasn’t simply from rumortown:
“Rumor? No, it’s not a rumor,” Perry shared. “I’ve been there for four years now and had tremendous success. I wasn’t expecting this to happen, so, yes — if that is possible, I’m very, very interested in taking as much of it…”
He continued, “If it’s possible, I’m gonna take as much of it as I can.”
However, Perry is not the only interested buyer. Diddy would also love to get in on that, and it looks like another outlet jumped the gun and decided to report that Perry had a done deal. The report surfaced as a claimed exclusive from a site called TheStreamr, and although the report quickly spread, the Huffington Post’s Phil Lewis noted on Twitter that the report has evaporated: “Just FYI, the original report on this Tyler Perry BET news has been taken down.”
In other words, not so fast, Bruh. Although if Buff Perry has his way, the news could become real at some point, so stay tuned.
Attending Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE World Tour is a major accomplishment on its own, considering how expensive tickets are. On the 41-year-old’s opening night in Stockholm, Sweden, two members of the BeyHive made their experience even more special by commerating it with a proposal. In a video circulating online, two women stand in the crowd as Queen B’s voice beautifully rings out in the background. As one of them gets on her knees, those around them let out excited squeals as she reacts in obvious emotion to her partner’s question.
Of course, the moment was full of emotion for everyone involved – including Jay-Z and Tyler Perry. The two entertainment industry legends were obviously in the audience supporting Beyoncé on her opening night, but momentarily took their eyes off the Houston native to applaud the proposal playing out in front of them during the show. The rapper and actor, both wearing sunglasses, broke out in huge smiles while clapping, clearly feeling the love, even from several feet away.
After accepting her partner’s beautiful ring, the two women share a sweet embrace and begin singing along with Beyoncé. It remains unclear if the main act herself saw the show in the audience from her post, though she certainly heard them crooning out “Love On Top” elsewhere during the show. Aside from that, other noteworthy moments from night one include her take on Lil Uzi Vert’s “Just Wanna Rock” choreography, as well as some shade seemingly thrown at Donald Glover.
After taking a few days off to recuperate her stamina, Beyoncé will be back in action on Sunday (May 14) in Brussels, Belgium. Following that, she’s scheduled to close out the month of May visiting cities like Cardiff, Sunderland, and London before eventually landing back in North America this July. Check out a video of the heartwarming proposal (plus Hov and Tyler Perry’s priceless reaction) above. For more updates on the RENAISSANCE World Tour and your other favourite artists, make sure to tap back in later.
A new bid to acquire the Black Entertainment Television (BET) network has emerged, as 50 Cent, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kenya Barris have joined forces with Group Black, CVC Capital Partners, and Authentic Brands Groups. They are now competing against Tyler Perry, Diddy, and Byron Allen in the race to acquire BET. Updated By: Chris Samuel […]
Tyler Perry’s entrancing career began with his performances on stage. In 2005, he produced, wrote, and starred in the romantic drama Diary of a Mad Black Woman, raising part of its budget from ticket sales of his shows. While not universally acclaimed by critics, it was a major success at the box office totaling $50.6 million against a $5.5 million budget. The following year, he brought another sequel to life – Madea’s Family Reunion – marking his directorial debut. Again, the result was immensely successful. Gently embracing any pre-existing biases one may have, Tyler Perry movies bring messages of hope and happiness that are sure to capture anyone’s attention.
11. Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005)
At the onset of his career, Tyler Perry made a stunning impression on the world with Diary of a Mad Black Woman. An adaptation of one of his plays, it proved his grand potential as a writer, director, and producer. From then onward, he never looked back. With countless more productions and characters under his belt, he broadened his horizon even further, captivating everyone with new stories and adventures. Live theater may have been the preferred version at first, but Madea’s arrival on the silver screen was an event to behold.
10. Good Deeds (2012)
Good Deeds shines with an air of refreshing complexity, devoid of Perry’s signature humorous flare. While he is by no means the world’s greatest actor, his performance offers a palpable level of growth and confidence. Thandie Newton brings her character, Lindsey, to life in a way that few actresses could have done. Though their chemistry fails to be convincing, Perry makes the romantic thread work. Good Deeds stands out as one of Perry’s greatest films to date, sure to draw delight and admiration from fans who appreciate its heartfelt faith in humanity.
9. The Family that Preys (2008)
Perry’s fandom is split into two parts: the movies with Madea, which are successful and profitable, and the others, which don’t do as well. This film stands out for its impressive cast of Oscar-winning Kathy Bates, Alfre Woodard, and Robin Givens. Perry’s fifth effort as writer-director was also instrumental in proving he knows what it takes to make a hit. The result was an essential milestone in his career; no longer just adapting plays or crafting melodramas akin to King Vidor’s classic Imitation of Life, but instead creating something more suitable for a modern audience.
8. A Fall from Grace (2020)
Tyler Perry’s first Netflix production, A Fall From Grace, has all the classic trademarks of his prolific filmography: strong performances, an understandable plotline, and wild tonal shifts. His signature style of awkward blocking, flat lighting, abrupt cuts, and a blend of moralism and salaciousness is all present in this two-hour movie that was reportedly shot in just five days at the Atlanta studio.
The story takes the familiar path certain to be expected from this experienced filmmaker–a righteous, faithful woman faces a betrayal that she must confront with courage. Her adversary? A good-looking man predictably destined to take off his shirt. The outcome arrives quickly despite the length of the movie and will leave viewers pondering: how did that character manage to get out of those handcuffs?
7. Madea’s Family Reunion (2005)
When Tyler Perry was granted the chance to direct his own film, he revealed that he was as skilled as a music video producer. Riotous, jumpy, and childish, this is one of the filmmaker’s most difficult films. On one side, everything with Madea, Joe, and her run-down family is agreeable. In reality, it’s pretty fun. But when the heavier parts (incest, mistreatment) kick into gear, the movie gets hazy. Perry will never solely make a comedy; he loves his life lessons too much. Here, the lesson turns heavy.
6. Meet the Browns (2008)
Among his many contributions to the entertainment world, Perry has propelled several unsung actors and singers into the limelight. Cheryl “Pepsii” Riley, Cassi Davis, and David and Tamala Mann are among his most successful successes. Their sizzling vocals have caused a stir in churches throughout the country. Through Mr. Brown, Perry found the perfect partner for Madea’s chaotic hilarity. Although his plays offer a superior platform for comedic back-and-forths, this movie manages to demonstrate just how powerful the dynamic between an aggravated fashion disaster and a cantankerous old soul can be.
5. Why Did I Get Married? (2007)
A star-studded cast, headlined by Janet Jackson, brings Tyler Perry’s examination of interpersonal relationships to the big screen. The standard fare of an upset hubby, a bossy wife, unfaithful lovers, and reckless divas is present, yet the real insight lies in recognizing the connecting factors between couples. It strays from being a mere morality tale and sheds light on issues such as failings and resolutions to create something extraordinary among established genres.
4. The Single Moms Club (2014)
Five mothers from disparate backgrounds joined together after their children were troublemakers at school. Despite it being a struggle to begin with, eventually, they formed a supportive bond, helping and encouraging one another. Although this movie wasn’t jam-packed with action, their friendship was lovely. Not needing to be anything more than a pleasant and heartwarming story, it also offered comedy, romance, and a hint of drama. One could certainly call this one of Tyler Perry’s more feel-good films; its light and humorous tone contrasted starkly with his past darker releases.
3. I Can Do Bad All By Myself (2019)
The three orphans had been searching for a family to call home, and they eventually arrive at their drunken diva aunt’s doorstep. Little did they know, Tyler Perry was behind this amazing comic drama. The story is simple, but the music featured throughout is breathtaking. Gladys Knight, Mary J. Blige, and Marvin Winans provide uplifting melodies that will rejuvenate any spirit. Most notably, Winan’s rendition of “Oh Lord I Want You To Help Me” is simply divine. You won’t want to miss this delightful cinematic experience with its soulful soundtrack.
2. A Jazzman’s Blues (2022)
Tyler Perry has become a billionaire media mogul with his plays, films, and television series that espouse Christian lessons of self-worth and redemption. His newest production, A Jazzman’s Blues, departs from such thematic elements—no risible wigs or shallow storylines here. Instead, we get two hours of carefully crafted characters and a climax that packs a punch. Regrettably, this film was released on Netflix instead of competing against a weak showing at the theater. However, it should be noted: not only is Jazzman suitable for a Tyler Perry picture, but it’s also a high-caliber work in its own right.
1. Madea Goes to Jail (2009)
Madea’s wild antics make this one of Tyler Perry’s funniest films. His performance is spot-on in even the most staged sequences, while the young lawyer caught between his former girlfriend-turned-prostitute story sees less complexity. Her fiancee’s role is nearly clichéd, requiring nothing more than a mustache to twirl. The humor draws our attention, and Perry skillfully instills its importance. He makes sure that the message isn’t lost in all the laughter.
