Tyler Perry Does an Inspirational Interview on the Dr. Phil Show

Tyler Perry did a fantastic interview on the Dr. Phil Show today. It was partially at the request of Dr. Phil's wife, Robin. It turns out Perry's Diary of a Mad Black Woman is one of Robin's favorite movies. Diary includes classic Madea, Perry's alter ego, who is a tough, old, black lady. He was also promoting his new comedic movie, Madea Goes to Jail, in which Dr. Phil plays himself.

In Madea Goes to Jail, Dr. Phil tries to get Madea to address her anger issues. If you have seen any of Perry's previous works with Madea's character in them, you know her anger gets her into a lot of trouble. The dialogue between Madea and Dr. Phil in the film clips they showed is hysterical. Most of it was adlibbed between them. Dr. Phil said that he is convinced Madea is Perry's alter ego, because he portrays her so convincingly. It was easy for Dr. Phil to adlib during film shoots because it really was like trying to counsel an angry old woman!

Tyler Perry is an extremely successful writer, actor, director and producer of plays, movies and television sitcoms. His works include humor but they deal with edgy, societal issues that need to be addressed. He has a large audience, and I'm sure it is comprised of all nationalities, although the messages in his work are primarily aimed at the African- American community. I think his work has such cross appeal because it is faith based - yes, he is a devote Christian. Also, it comes from his heart, drawing on experiences from his own life and community.

At one point, Tyler Perry was a homeless, angry, twenty-some year old man. Now he is a very successful man whose star is still rising. (He will turn forty this coming September). What I like most about him is that he has remained humble and grounded about it all. In the interview with Dr. Phil, it was obvious that they really respect and like each other.

Tyler Perry gave two important lessons during the Dr. Phil interview. First, forgive those who do you wrong for your own sake. He put it like this: "Forgive for yourself". He said if you don't forgive, anger "sits inside you and changes you". Second, whatever you decide to do, whatever your dreams are, "Keep moving". I was touched by his wisdom. I can't wait to go see Madea Goes to Jail. I know I will walk away having had a good laugh and an inspirational lesson or two, as well.