Mar 21st, 2007 · Before Martin Lawrence's Shanaynay character, or Tyler Perry's Madea, Flip Wilson set the bar high with his portrayal of the sassy Gerladine Jones. She was one of many characters from the late comedian's award-winning series, The Flip Wilson Show.
Feb 26th, 2007 · Two recent film portrayals of African-American women have drawn huge audiences: Tyler Perry's Madea character, which has spawned a franchise; and Eddie Murphy's Rasputia in Norbit. The large, boisterous characters have sparked outrage along with ticket sales.
Apr 24th, 2006 · Until it was flattened by the latest Ice Age movie, Madea's Family Reunion had the biggest opening weekend of the year. This was the second hit for writer, director and star Tyler Perry, who is transforming himself into an entertainment empire.
Apr 12th, 2006 · Playwright, director and, now, author Tyler Perry talks about his new book Don't Make A Black Woman Take off her Earrings.
Mar 3rd, 2006 · Madea's Family Reunion grossed more than $30 million in its opening weekend at the box office. The movie's writer, director and co-star, Tyler Perry, talks with Ed Gordon about the lure of his main character, an outspoken black woman.
Feb 25th, 2005 · 'Diary of a Mad Black Woman' February 25, 2005 · Film critic David Edelstein reviews Diary of a Mad Black Woman, starring Tyler Perry and Cicely Tyson.
Feb 25th, 2005 · Playwright and emerging entertainment mogul Tyler Perry has gained a following in the black community for his musical and spiritual plays. His debut film, Diary of a Mad Black Woman, opens in theaters today. NPR's Karen Grigsby Bates profiles Perry.