Tyler Perry was honoured Tuesday October 1st with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
During the ceremony, the media mogul was joined by actors he formerly directed throughout his career including Kerry Washington, Idris Elba and Crystal Fox.
Perry went on to deliver a powerful speech, dedicating the recognition to the underdogs.
He said on getting to the podium that this major accomplishment is meant to serve as a source of inspiration for those “whose dreams may be on life support.”
“I want you to walk past this star in particular and know that I’ve been there,” he said. “I’ve been struggling, I’ve been out, broke, homeless. I’ve been through all of those things, but there was a perseverance, a tremendous faith in God, and this hope that allowed me to keep going.”
He added that he hopes those walking past his star will feel seen and can take at least a few things away when they see his name.
“So, if you’re looking at all of these stars,” he added. “I’m sure everybody has a story here who’s been immortalized here, but this one in particular is for the underdogs. This one in particular is for the ones who want to do it their way. This one in particular is for those who want to bring as many people through the door with them as they can.”
He later shared the news to Instagram, writing:
Ok, let me explain this photo. So I got a star today on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Thank you chamber!! I’m so grateful, but onto this photo. @only1crystalfox spoke and moved me. @kerrywashington spoke, and we both were in tears. Then @idriselba came up to speak, and they all were so powerful. I was so moved. To look out and see all the cast from all the shows that I have created made my heart so full. To be able to give opportunities to so many was just so humbling to me. Anyway, the photogs were asking for photos so at that moment the BEAUTIFUL KERRY WASHINGTON was leaving, and they all started snapping pictures of her!! Look at my face. We had such a good laugh about this. Thank you everyone for your support and love all these years. My Mamma would be so proud.
