Tyler Perry extends deal with Lionsgate
By Jeff Labrecque Updated March 31, 2011 at 07:29 PM EDT
Credit: Jim Spellman/WireImage.com
Tyler Perry, he of the successful Madea films and the upcoming star of I, Alex Cross, has extended his partnership with Lionsgate with a multi-year deal for films and home entertainment. Lionsgate has distributed Perry's films since 2005's Diary of a Mad Black Woman, and three more Madea films are on the way, including next month's Tyler Perry's Madea's Big Happy Family.
"Together, Lionsgate and I have built the ideal filmmaker/studio relationship, and I'm thrilled that it will be continuing," said Perry, in a statement. "We share an entrepreneurial spirit and have a great business rapport. But more importantly, Lionsgate has been incredibly affirming of my relationship with my audience — I've always had the artistic freedom to speak what I want, how I want, and when I want through my films."
In the last six years, Perry's 10 films grossed more than $520 million for Lionsgate at the box office. The studio has sold more than 40 million DVD and digital copies of his films, television shows, and stage plays. "Tyler Perry is one of the most powerful and unique entertainment brands in the world today, with a fan base that is virtually unrivaled in its loyalty and passion," said Lionsgate co-chairman and CEO Jon Feltheimer, in a statement. "Lionsgate and Tyler have grown together for many years, and we look forward to pushing the envelopes of our businesses together for many years to come. Tyler is a remarkable creative force, and it is a privilege to support his efforts to continue to enlarge his audience and extend his creative reach."
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