Tyler Perry and The Perry Foundation will receive the 2020 Governors Award “in recognition of their unparalleled contributions to shaping the television medium,” the Television Academy announced Tuesday.
The prestigious award honors an individual or organization in television whose achievement is so exceptional that it goes beyond the scope of annual Emmy Awards recognition.
“I’m grateful for and humbled by this recognition from the Television Academy,” Perry said in a statement. “I’ve always prided myself on the work we do at the studio, our diverse representation of people from all walks of life, and the community we’ve built. 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.”
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The academy’s board of governors praised Perry for his commitment to offering opportunities to marginalized communities.
“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,” said Governors Award selection committee Chair Eva Basler.
“Tyler’s influence has extended far beyond the screen. His commitment to a broad range of philanthropic causes has had a profound impact on underserved communities around the world,” added committee Vice Chair Debra Curtis.
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Perry, a native of New Orleans, rose from humble beginnings and now owns the groundbreaking Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta. The actor, writer, producer, director and philanthropist is credited with 22 feature films, over 20 stage plays, 13 television shows, and two New York Times bestselling books.
Previous recipients of the Governors Award include Star Trek; American Idol; William S. Paley; Masterpiece Theater; Comic Relief; and ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and A+E networks.
Perry will receive his statuette during the Emmy Awards telecast on Sunday, Sept. 20.
