Tyler Perry to receive Governors Award at 2020 Emmys
Perry will be honored for his commitment to 'offering opportunities to marginalized communities through personal and The Perry Foundation programs'
Beloved television and film creator Tyler Perry is set to receive one of the Television Academy’s highest honors, the Governors Award, during the 2020 Emmy Awards.
Perry will be honored for his commitment to “offering opportunities to marginalized communities through personal and The Perry Foundation programs of inclusion, engagement, employment, and other philanthropic initiatives,” according to Deadline.
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Over the last three decades, the Governors Award has largely been awarded to television shows and networks. However, in its origin, it was awarded to top entertainers, including Johnny Carson, Bob Hope, and Lucille Ball, Deadline reported.
The Governors Award is usually presented during the Creative Arts Emmys. However, after not being given out last year, it is being moved to the main ceremony with the presentation to Perry.
Governors Award selection committee chair Eva Basler said in a statement, “Tyler Perry has changed the face of television and inspired a new generation of content creators. He pioneered a new brand of storytelling that engages people of color both in front of and behind the camera, and his shows have resonated with a global audience.”
In addition to his television and film achievements of 22 feature films, over 20 stage plays, 13 television shows and two best-selling books, Perry is also being honored for his legacy of philanthropy.
Perry supports many charities, including Global Medical Relief Fund, Charity Water, Feeding America, Covenant House, Hosea Feed the Hungry, and Project Adventure.
Perry Place is a 20-home community that the mogul built for survivors of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. He has continued to commit financial support to rebuild lives and homes in communities affected by hurricanes.
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During the coronavirus pandemic, Perry gave out gift cards to the elderly in Atlanta and New Orleans. He also provided private transportation to George Floyd’s family during his memorial services and paid for the funeral services of Rayshard Brooks and Secoria Turner.
“I’m grateful for and humbled by this recognition from the Television Academy,” Perry said about the announcement. “My hope is that through moments like this we can remind others of the power of ownership and show that when the world doesn’t offer you a seat at the table, you can build your own.”
The telecast of the 72nd Emmy Awards will air on ABC on Sept. 20.
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