Tyler Perry Recalls Late Norman Lear Bringing Him 'Laughter And Joy' As A Child
By Afouda Bamidele on December 6, 2023 at 11:45 AM EST
Tributes continue to pour in for the late Hollywood veteran Norman Lear, with the newest homage coming from Tyler Perry.
The American icon best known for his decades-long career as a screenwriter and TV producer took his final breath on Tuesday, December 5. The entertainment industry mogul's passing came at the incredible age of 101, after developing over 100 successful shows.
Naturally, the New Haven native's achievements have touched the lives of millions, including that of Perry, another famous face in the producing scene. The "Madea" creator recently reflected on Lear's legacy in a lengthy statement, raving about how the father of 6 saved his life.
Tyler Perry Credits The Late Norman Lear For Inspiring His Successful Career
A day after news of the "Good Times" producer's death broke, Perry paid homage to the deceased entertainer with a heartwarming message. Instead of sharing a grief-stricken post, the 54-year-old skipped the poignant theme for an admiration-filled farewell to the man who changed his life.
The New Orleans native shared a picture of himself posing with the deceased actor in stunning outdoor scenery. The pair wore matching bright smiles and casual sweaters, looking like the perfect geeky duo with their glasses.
In the accompanying caption, the "Diary of a Mad Black Woman" producer revealed the snap was taken when he met his hero for the first time. The moment marked a significant milestone in Perry's life, and he expressed gratitude for having the opportunity to thank Lear for positively impacting his childhood and, overall, his career.
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"Not long ago, I had the pleasure of meeting one of my heroes. He invited me to lunch at his home, and as we sat and talked and laughed, I got a chance to tell him how he had helped save my life," the Primetime Emmy Award winner began his Instagram tribute, adding:
"I shared with him that he taught me to dream a bigger dream by his example. He was 100 years old at the time but sharp as ever. Full of wisdom and great advice, and I took it all in. Just before I left, I asked, 'At 100 years old, what are you looking forward to?' Without any hesitation, he said, 'Tomorrow.'"
Perry noted that this "simple but powerful lesson to live your life fully one day at a time" sweetly coincided with the name of one of Lear's most popular TV projects, "One Day at a Time."
The billionaire producer went on to list other famous works like "Sanford and Son," "Maude," and "All in the Family," noting that these shows brightened his gloomy childhood. In the "Tyler Perry's House of Payne" developer's words:
"They were the only thing that brought me laughter and joy to me as a child who was living a daily nightmare. I'm so glad that I had the chance to say to him, thanks to his vision and his work, he gave me many 'tomorrows' to look forward to. So today, sadly, I say goodbye, and I salute a veteran."
The African-American Film Critics Association Award honoree continued hailing the deceased as a hero, and he also thanked Lear for inspiring him to "try and bring as much laughter to the world as he brought to the little boy that I was."
"You, sir, are truly one of one! I'm so glad we were on the planet at the same time. Thank you for your example. Rest in peace, my dear friend; I thank God for you. My prayers are with your family. Travel well, Mr. Norman Lear," the 54-year-old concluded his tribute.
The Army Veteran Died Of Natural Causes In His Los Angeles Home
A day before Perry's heartfelt homage to the Hollywood Walk of Fame honoree, his family announced the icon's passing with a statement. The late TV producer's loved ones implored the public for privacy as they navigated this difficult period and thanked fans for their condolences.
"Thank you for the moving outpouring of love and support in honor of our wonderful husband, father, and grandfather," Lear's family noted in their statement before reflecting on the screenwriter's legacy. The grieving relatives wrote:
"Norman lived a life of creativity, tenacity, and empathy. He deeply loved our country and spent a lifetime helping to preserve its founding ideals of justice and equality for all. Knowing and loving him has been the greatest of gifts."
"We ask for your understanding as we mourn privately in celebration of this remarkable human being," they concluded their message. As for how the former Army Air Forces member died, his publicist confirmed Lear passed away in his Los Angeles home from natural causes.
