Billionaire Tyler Perry Whose Childhood Was a ‘Living Hell’ Keeps His Only Son Grounded: ‘He Ain’t Got No Money’

• Tyler Perry endured a harsh upbringing during his early years.
• Many years later, his life took a sudden turn when he discovered through a FaceTime call that his girlfriend was pregnant with their child.
• The actor opened up about his modest upbringing and its impact on his approach to parenting his son.

Tyler Perry is a celebrated actor, writer, and producer known for his notable roles in film and television. He gained widespread recognition for portraying the iconic character “Madea” in various stage plays, movies, and TV shows.

Perry’s unique blend of comedy and drama captivated audiences and earned him critical acclaim. His talent and contributions have been acknowledged with several awards, including multiple NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actor and Outstanding Writing. Additionally, he has received accolades for his work as a producer, including the BET Honors Visionary Award and the Producers Guild of America’s Visionary Award.

Perry overcame a challenging childhood marked by poverty and abuse before his rise to fame. Reflecting on his upbringing, he candidly expressed in a 2020 interview:

“I love when people say you come from ‘humble beginnings.’ [It] means you were poor as hell. It also makes success sweeter.”

In a 2010 interview with Oprah Winfrey, a close friend, Perry shared insights into his childhood, describing it as a “living hell.” He opened up about the emotional impact of his past, tears welling up in his eyes as he looked at a photograph of his younger self. “That’s hard for me to look at,” he admitted. “I feel like I died as a child.”

The “Sistas” actor’s perspective on ownership has been a driving force behind his success. He firmly believes that “ownership changes everything.” Recognizing the transformative power of owning his work, properties, and creative endeavors, Perry has taken control of his own destiny and risen to prominence in the entertainment industry.

Later, he remembered an incident when Aman, at the tender age of six, asked to use his credit card after observing his father use it for toy purchases.

With a net worth estimated at $1 billion, Perry’s achievements as a media mogul, actor, writer, and producer have been recognized by Forbes. As a result, he is reported to have a clear path to future membership in “The Forbes 400,” an elite list of the wealthiest individuals in America.

Besides being a business tycoon and a media personality, Perry had a significant personal milestone when his girlfriend informed him of her pregnancy. He recounted the moment, saying:

“I get a FaceTime call, and she’s holding up the pregnancy stick. I’m like, ‘I guess this is happening.'”

At 45, Perry became a father when he and his longtime girlfriend, Gelila Bekele, welcomed their first child, a son named Aman Tyler Bekele-Perry, on November 30, 2014. Sources reported that both the mother and baby were happy and healthy. Perry expressed his excitement and gratitude on Facebook, stating:

“I have traveled the world trying to find the peace that I have when I’m holding my sleeping son in my arms. God thank you! Amen for Aman. He’s beautiful!”

However, in December 2020, Perry and Bekele announced they had decided to call it quits. Despite their separation, the focus remained on their shared commitment to being the best parents they could be for their son.

In addition to being a successful actor, movie maker, playwright, and businessman, Perry loves being a father, cherishing the special moments he has shared with his son, Aman. In February 2015, the doting dad organized his son’s christening in his backyard as a tribute to his mother’s upbringing, which turned out to be a significant event.

The ceremony was attended by influential figures, including Winfrey, Cicely Tyson, and Jennifer Hudson, who were named Aman’s godparents. Perry expressed gratitude for the love surrounding his son’s birth and acknowledged the significance of being born into a loving environment.

Perry remains committed to instilling essential values in his son as he grows up. He teaches him about the realities of privilege and the importance of hard work. In an interview in June 2022, the father of one emphasized that his son doesn’t get everything he desires. He explained:

“[Aman] does not get everything he wants. For birthdays, he’ll get a gift or two. For Christmas, he’ll get a gift or two. Because he [doesn’t] have a job. He ain’t got no money.”

Later, he remembered an incident when Aman, at the tender age of six, asked to use his credit card after observing his father use it for toy purchases. The “A Madea Homecoming” alum took the opportunity to explain the concept of responsibility and the need to earn money, ensuring that Aman understood the importance of financial independence.

On several other occasions, Perry has spoken lovingly about his son’s creative streak, musical inclinations, and joyful nature. He encourages Aman to embrace his individuality and supports his passions. Perry finds great joy in seeing his traits reflected in his son while appreciating that Aman has his own unique personality and life.

Despite his successful career, Perry prioritizes Aman’s privacy and allows him to lead a normal life. He wants his son to have his identity and not feel pressured to live up to his father’s achievements. Perry believes in giving Aman the freedom to pursue his dreams and endeavors without preconceived expectations.

In disciplining his son, Perry believes in open and respectful communication. He once recounted a touching incident where he had to discipline a five-year-old Aman, teaching him the importance of respecting others. As Aman responded with tears, saying, “Yes, Papa. Yes, Papa,” Perry was deeply moved by the opportunity to talk to his son like a person, providing him with the attention and understanding he wished he had received at a young age.

Looking ahead, Perry envisions supporting his son’s dreams, whatever they may be. While he humorously entertains the idea of handing over the keys to his studio and enjoying retirement at 80, Perry understands the importance of allowing Aman to find his path and create his own legacy.