Tyler Perry defends casting Kim Kardashian
AP
Tyler Perry had no idea Kim Kardashian would cause him so much grief.
“I could not have imagined I’d be getting all these emails about Kim Kardashian,” he said in a letter to fans posted on his web site. “Now, may I say something? Can a brother get a word in?….LOL. Y’all gave me a new movie title: Tyler Perry’s ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman Cause You Hired Kim Kardashian, Don’t Make Me Take Off My Earrings and Boycott Yo A**.’ ”
Kidding aside, he explains the movie thusly:
“This movie is about a young lady named Judith (Jurnee Smolett), who grew up in the countryside of Virginia in a trailer park. She was raised in the church by her mother Sarah (Ella Joyce). Judith married her childhood sweetheart Brice (Lance Gross) and had the perfect life until she graduated college and went to work in the big city. After college, all she wanted to do was be a marriage counselor, but the only job she could find was working for a matchmaker named Janice (Vanessa Williams). Janice has several employees that work for her, including a woman named Ava (Kim Kardashian). Ava is constantly trying to influence Judith on everything from her shoes to her hair.”
Kardashian fatigue seems to be setting in.
And so on. Perry’s movies do well at the box office but he may have a challenge convincing people to spend money to see (more of) Kardashian. This online “Boycott Kim Kardashian” petition has more than 100,000 virtual signatures.
But Perry defends his decision to cast her.
“What better person! She literally has millions of young people following her. I thought and still do think, that it would be very responsible of her to be a part of this film. To have the young people that look up to her, see her in a film that is about, what happens in life when you make the wrong choices. Why wouldn’t Kim Kardashian be invited into a film about Faith, Forgiveness and the healing power of God? What is wrong with that?”
- Jennifer Brett/The Buzz/jbrett@ajc.com
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226 comments Add your comment
Kimberly
November 17th, 2011
12:57 pm
Number to all the people who say white people do not see his flims that is a lie, I am white and I watch his plays and movies. I know tons of other white people who watch his work as well. Now I have an issue with the KK thing, she is a fake and she got famous from a tape and people keep buying into her bull crap making her money from being a sex start. Sorry but it is the truth and why should our daughters look up to her? What has she done to be looked up to? Does she work because she has talent? Did she become famous for having sex on tape? Does she even have a college education? I am sorry but no I do not want my daughter looking up to someone who sells herself for any amount of money, she is vein, she has no morals, no back bone (clearly seen after not even telling her husband she wanted a divorce), and she is an attention hoe! Sorry but I think people are mad because they are seeing her for who she really is now, and its sad that producers and directors will put anyone into their movies even if they have no acting skills. If you were really a director or producers who was about his flims you would not hire people with no skill, you would want talented people in your flims. This shows us your only trying to bring in money and not worried with the acting in your flim! I wont see it because your casting a talentless person so I supect it will suck she tried acting and it was HORRIBLE! You would have better luck trying to say this about her brother who by the way has a college degree! Lets learn to teach our kids to follow positve people who are about something not about getting famous and more money base of their sex tape!
Sorry TP wont see it I love your stuff but this is something I wont buy into! Cast someone with Talent like maybe the people who did the role in the play they were good !
LydiasDad
November 17th, 2011
12:58 pm
Why is Kim a bad choice? Because, Tyler, you dense nincompoop, you’re rewarding and legitimizing a woman who exploited marriage for ratings and money. Sure, there are lots of divorces everyday (we don’t need to rehash all that), but they are real attempts at it. The general public is offended that Kim divorced after 72 days; she didn’t even try. Or worse, she never intended to go through with it. Don’t reward this new breed of talentless celebrity who’s only claim to faim is being famous.
LydiasDad
November 17th, 2011
12:59 pm
That should be “fame”.
just sayin'
November 17th, 2011
1:00 pm
Looks like my comment was censored for using “wh_re” as a verb, not a noun. Thanks AJC!!!
Sherry
November 17th, 2011
1:05 pm
It is your prerogative to cast whoever you want in YOUR movies. You did not owe anyone an explanation. It is MY prerogative to decide how I spend my money and it will NOT be to purchase a ticket for this movie. No explanation needed….but I will provide it. Kim is just the icing on the cake for me. Your movies have taken a turn for the worse IMO. Let me correct that statement: I like your movies that do not feature Madea. You tend to cast true actors in those roles. The movies are not buffonary. As an African American, I am not obligated to support you because we share the same race. I support those who produce quality work, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, etc. It’s not hate and I wish we could remove that word from the English language in the context in which people use it who because someone disagrees. It’s my opinion and my choice.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
1:07 pm
@Tyler Perry…I live in Midtown, around the corner from Piedmont Park you can film at my house!!!!! I don’t give a hoot who is in the movie! I’ll be at the box office opening weekend! Also, does the studio have any job openings? I do have a degree I’m looking to work closer to home. BTW…I don’t know ANYONE on this blog! I have always been a supporter of ANY BLACK SUCCESSFUL person no matter if they are famous or not!
Kim Kardashian’s ex-publicist ‘posts suicidal messages’ after reality star … – Daily Mail » Kim Kardashian Superstar
November 17th, 2011
1:09 pm
[...] legal action against him for claiming that her marriage to Kris Humphries was a sham. …Perry defends casting Kim KardashianAtlanta Journal Constitution [...]
mamaj
November 17th, 2011
1:16 pm
Meyoushe, I think you need to go back and watch that Wendy Williams show with Ne-Ne on it from yesterday, because you were obviously looking at it through opaque glasses. None of what you just stated was the truth. She was the perfect guest and It was obvious that Wendy loves her, and the audience couldn’t stop clapping for her. Never in a million years would I have thought that I’d watch The Housewives show, and even more, like Ne-Ne–but I do.Go back and listen to the 3 B’s that Wendy stated for the reasons that Ne-Ne is so misunderstood, and they were right on the money…but maybe not for you.
Are You Kidding Me?
November 17th, 2011
1:16 pm
Well said Jay S. People kill me with their holier than thou BS.
My real issue though is that so many people who claim to be concerned with Kim Kardashian taking an opportunity away from another black actress have no problem jeopardizing the opportunities of other black actors and actresses that Tyler Perry IS employing right now. Journey Smollett, Lance Gross, Brandy, Ella Joyce, Eric West, Robbie Jones and Candice Coke among others are getting an opportunity because of TP. Boycotting this movie could certainly have an impact on their future opportunities. TP is going to be fine financially if this movie doesn’t make a dime but what about all the actors, actresses and production people of color he employs? You all want to block their blessings because you hate Kim Kardashian? He who is without sin cast the first stone.
Lamar Odom
November 17th, 2011
1:20 pm
Talented ten I guess you fail to relaize that there family did not got famous off a sex tape. Do you know who her step father is and her real dad. Kim has been making money on her own with so many different ventures….Including clothing lines, perfume, shows ect. Wontseeit I guess you know everyone that sees his movies… how could you make such and ambigous statement that white people dont watch his movie….. You apparently get something in the mail like alist of everyone who watches his movie along with there race. Ignorant I think is the best word for you just as complaining about an accomplished movie producer that is black who apparently is somehow obligated to only cast black people. You heard of affirmative action well seems like it should work both ways cause god for bid and white actress gets a chance in a so called black only cast for all his movies. But hey dont see it cause wouldnt want to support anything with a white person being in a Perry movie…..
meyoushe
November 17th, 2011
1:23 pm
@mamaj I stick with what I said…. Nene was combative and defensive when questions was asked that she did not like. Wendy indeed told BIG GUMP she need to asscoiate with people that has her best interest. She also said earlier on one of her shows that NENE was arrogant, yes indeed she said she likes NENE too…….. we all know that is one big stupid NUT. I guess I had it wrong about her hubby putting her on blast as well. I guess you enjoy her stupidity, everyone dosen’t. We don’t have to make it a pissing contest, That was my view and you can’t change it.
girl 6
November 17th, 2011
1:23 pm
@emma- dannnnng girl. @ talented tenth- thou doth mis-represent.
carla roqs
November 17th, 2011
1:24 pm
@ jennifer- this is a hoot
carla roqs
November 17th, 2011
1:27 pm
@lamar odom- the only thing i disagree with would be… your…grammar– once i figure my way through that–tell ‘em like it is, honey! love your style. @ reggie bush- LMCBO&O&O&O&O&O some more!!
BMChristianConservative
November 17th, 2011
1:27 pm
WAS TONI BRAXTON OR CHILI CONSIDERED FOR THE ROLE?? BOTH OF THEM NEED THE MONEY A LOT MORE THAN KK!!! IF TP DON’T EXPLAIN HIMSELF A LITTLE BETTER, THEN I WILL DEFINITELY PASS ON THIS MOVIE AND PROBABLY A LOT MORE AFTER THIS ONE!!
AtlantaBoy
November 17th, 2011
1:29 pm
If she’s naked, I will pay to see her.
beegee
November 17th, 2011
1:34 pm
another one of the same types of movies ,i mean haven,t u women had enough of madea,damn make a movie with some men pplaying inportant cast,other than same old male bully movies, get some balls Tyler, cuss your movies all all one sided just like the women who approves of it
our society has become pathetic
November 17th, 2011
1:35 pm
I don’t want to be friends with anyone who has watched the Kardashian show for more than a total of 10 minutes.
Queen B
November 17th, 2011
1:37 pm
Tyler, do what you want to do. This is YOUR movie not theirs.Let the people who are “bitchin” stay home.If they don’t like it. If you let them dictate to you now, what’s next?
joe
November 17th, 2011
1:38 pm
Everyone needs to watch the recent SNL skit that ripped on the Kardashians. It was hilarious.
Zay 38
November 17th, 2011
1:46 pm
What the hell are all of these negative people on this blog talking about. Tyler has done a great job. His Madea character reminds me of my grand mother just like many of other peoples grand mother. Plus he has made a lot of unknown people famous. Such as David Mann ( Mr. Brown ), Cassi Davis ( aunt Ella/ Bam), LaVan Davis ( Curtis Payne ) and many more. So with saying that MY HAT IS OFF TO TYLER PERRY…….KEEP UP THE ( NOT GOOD ) BUT GREAT WORK.
Nikki
November 17th, 2011
1:48 pm
I have always enjoyed Tyler’s movies in the past even the “not so great ones” because I always found it encouraging that he supported “quality actors” black or white who brought something special to the big screen. In the case of Ms. K, I’ve never watched any of her or her family’s shows, bought anything Kardashian because she nor her family is not what I look to as positive people. She has been introduced to the worldwide media in a negative light and has remained there ever since. Now that Tyler has linked himself to this family I will now hold him in the same regards as I do the Kardashian clan. If I didn’t support KK in the past I will continue to do so even if that means no longer supporting Tyler. It’s a shame that she has found a way to infiltrate her way into the heart of a brilliant director that would cause him to ignore the bigger “moral” picture.
Eyes wide shut
November 17th, 2011
2:00 pm
What better person! She literally has millions of young people following her. I thought and still do think, that it would be very responsible of her to be a part of this film. To have the young people that look up to her, see her in a film that is about, what happens in life when you make the wrong choices. Why wouldn’t Kim Kardashian be invited into a film about Faith, Forgiveness and the healing power of God? What is wrong with that?”
Seriously! Are you kidding? So, every person that’s in a “Faith” movie is of “Faith” ? It’s called acting! If any of you can’t see clearly what’s in your face, then continue to be a mat to have people walk on you and leave their footprints as you have done all your life! Plain and simple! Don’t wonder and complain why any of these “young people” are the way they are!
GA Peach
November 17th, 2011
2:05 pm
Mr. Perry, you’re one of the highest paid black men in the US. Why are you explaining yourself? This is your movie, cast who you want to cast. Those who don’t want to see it, don’t have to. Everyone has choices and that’s what they choose. You true fans will be with you regardless!
Paula
November 17th, 2011
2:10 pm
Mr. Perry, I am a white woman, married with 2 teenage girls. I love your movies. But, please let me make this comment. Neither Kim Kardashian nor any member of her family is a role model. This is a family that will do ANYTHING, I mean ANYTHING to make a buck. They are a pathetic excuse for a family, and I would hope you, of all people, would see that. I am disappointed in your choice of Kim Kartrashian for a role in your movie.
Fart
November 17th, 2011
2:45 pm
Why isn’t anyone saying anything about the porn Kim kardashian did?
Alicia
November 17th, 2011
2:58 pm
I admire Tyler for his courage to produce films and stories that Hollywood has no interest in. Let TP show us his theatrical brilliance by giving us stories about the human condition that is not confined by race. It’s ironic how we were supportive and enthusiastic about the film The Help,which was well deserving,even though the writer of this story is caucasian. In other words, black people need stop hating and support and love those among us who achieve.
RahRah
November 17th, 2011
3:02 pm
y’all typing some crazy stuff.
buffonery..you must be bourgie, sorry can’t spell the word.
KK..she seems to be growing as a person, she works hard for her money, like any other woman she wants to be loved, some of us made bad choices in spouses and divorced. That takes a decisive woman. I can see her having fans–young female entrepenuers, she is making honest money. We all have some talent but we don’t look for it. I am glad she was not raised to be racist, I wish their were more families like hers. Her video was supposed to personal, believe me she regrets what happened. I hope my friends and family are not holding my stupid mistakes over my head the rest of my life.
TP..love that he tells different sides of our stories because most of them make us cry, molestation, discrimination, racism, DWB, higher prison sentences, lack of opportunity and education, do I need to keep going? We used to complain about Hollywood not giving us a break and TP opens a movie stuido in ATL making it the place to be for actors and all you can do is find problems. Some people don’t know when they’re blessed, will never be happy and have hateful thoughts.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
3:03 pm
The cameras are rooolllling….and ACTION! lolololololololroflolololol whewwwww CUT! Next scene! lolololololroflololololol
Emma
November 17th, 2011
3:07 pm
Annnndddd ROLLEM’ CUUTTTT, Kim wave to your fans! lololololololrofllllll
khuntz
November 17th, 2011
3:13 pm
Gurl, this discussion string has officially boarded Air Fontusha on its way to Alantra G A.
RahRah
November 17th, 2011
3:14 pm
After all these years of living the things I do understand are 1) people will always find something to criticize you for than they will have to admire you for, 2) if you are waiting for approval before doing something you will never get it, 3) no one is ever really happy for you because jealousy is a stronger emotion. 4) another dude can make crap and you will call it art, the one who makes real art, you call his stuff crap, 5) people will find any reason to put you down even if they are wrong and don’t know what they’re talking about, 6) you will never please anyone, so please yourself, etc, etc, etc.
Lamar Odom
November 17th, 2011
3:15 pm
@carla roqs what grammar issues
beebee
November 17th, 2011
3:25 pm
There are some very strong characters in Perry’s films as well.
I simply do not see him “making fools” out of black people.
People make fools of themselves.
TB
November 17th, 2011
3:34 pm
Just in case you all haven’t noticed…there are tons of white people at the movies with you watching the Tyler Perry movies – especially the ones with Madea. I remember when the first movie came out, I didn’t see it, until I was in Blockbuster and two little old, white, ladies told me how funny it was. Why do we as black people think that anytime one of us gets a leg up, her or she is supposed to take us all with them? Tyler Perry, Pres. Obama…these guys aren’t just working for us.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
3:39 pm
@khuntz “Final boarding call for Air Fontusha to Atlanta GA…” Ladies and Gentleman this is Captain TPerry and welcome aboard Flight KARS678…your flight attendants Kim, Kourtney, Khole, and Rob are aboard to make sure you have a safe and relaxing flight! Our feature presentation this eveing is ‘Keeping Up With the Kardashian’s’
ROFLOLOLOLOLOL this blog is a killer, someone call 911 for me oooohhhweee lolololroflolololol
dee
November 17th, 2011
3:41 pm
@ Lamar Odum, you are a idot anyways, you married trash and left your kids, you ugly black man.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
3:42 pm
I think I missed my calling! I should have been a comedian! lololololol OMG!
Love
November 17th, 2011
3:43 pm
Who cares, I hardly ever pay to see Perry’s pantheistic pontification of life struggles within our African American community anyway. Perry has been given a life chance to perform to the best of his abilities, to which he continues to struggle within his own non perfect world. The city of Atlanta, and the surrounding suburbs often whale at criticism, especially when they have to account for their own actions (See Bishop Long). Choosing Kim will neither expand or enhance the scope of Perry’s lackluster skills in film. Just “doin it”, and receiving praise from peers is not enough. Placing skilled and seasoned performers is what makes Perry tick, and for the most part, is what attracts the mainstream media goons. Perry is so in control of every facet of his operation that he fall short of the technical support he needs to enhance his brand. Creativity without tech support mean nothing (See Steve “Apple” Jobs) if you are the only voice; eventually, that voice will silence itself over time (See Oprah Winfrey).
Not a fan of either
November 17th, 2011
3:49 pm
Personally, I am not a fan of either, but if this is what TP chooses to do then it’s his choice. I have seen (i.e. been dragged to) a couple of his movies and I am kind of over him as well as the Kardashian mania. But to each his/her own.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
3:53 pm
@Not a fan either just posted comment 140…can I get another comment, comment 141, comment 141 now, now 141,now will you give me two, now comment 142 and 143…will ya give me 142 and 143…
lolololololololroflolololol…I’m about to pee my pants!
Enough is Enough
November 17th, 2011
4:03 pm
Your true audience…. Black Women are not going to see this movie. I hope the Kardashian followers show up for you . We are done!!!!!
Big Daddy Stain
November 17th, 2011
4:03 pm
Why are people so blinded by the thinly veiled “Jesus” work of Perry. He may have started off doing gospel tinged plays, but a flock of ,especially black women think his work is glorifying to God. He nor his work is ministry. Why does the name of God get thrown around so loosely when it comes to Tyler Perry? His work is garbage and no I’m not going to hell for saying that. Religion takes the place of common sense and still controls the mind as a slave master once did.
Belinda
November 17th, 2011
4:06 pm
Why??? Is so many people hating on K.K.? So, what if her second marriage only lasted 72 hrs.
I like all of your movies T.P. they’re entertaining & there is always a lesson to be shared. I truly hope the argument isn’t because she’s white. There’s still a lot of racist white folks in 2011 but Kim & her family are not racist. So, why the attack on Kim. For the record, I’m black.
Emma
November 17th, 2011
4:10 pm
@Enough is Enough…Hold Up, Wait A Minute let me put some pimpin’ in it…lolol Speak for your self sugah! This black woman is going opening weekend! “I got 5 on it!”
Frank Ski's stunt double
November 17th, 2011
4:11 pm
Ok Ok OK OK Okayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy
Tyler Perry asked me to be in the scene with Kim K. We will re-enact the Kim K and Ray J’s homemovie. I will be doing all of my own stunts…………. on a 20 minute break in between takes…………….ACTION
Belinda
November 17th, 2011
4:12 pm
Thanks, Kimberly I get your point….Now, I understand why people are hating on K.K. We should not glorify evil period………
Emma
November 17th, 2011
4:15 pm
@Frank Ski’s stunt double…Do you nee sound check? lolololololroflololol…I couldn’t help myself!
Adrea
November 17th, 2011
4:19 pm
How ironic that Kim K. will be in a movie called Marriage Counselor. She needed a Marriage Counselor instead of a divorce attorney. Tyler, I will not be seeing this movie. I’m tired of seeing her.
Frank Ski's stunt double
November 17th, 2011
4:24 pm
I’m not a fan of Tyler Perry’s work but he is putting money back into the community with jobs and careers. I could careless who he puts in his movies, I don’t watch them anyway. Some of the people on this blog B*t$hing & crying are the same ones that run to that Church in Decatur to support that child molester. Tyler Perry made over $130M last year. You think he will listen to some jealous hating women.
Never watched the Kim K show(except the Ray J movie)…..she is fine as h*ll. A lot of the blogs sounds like petty jealousy. Maybe if they(black women) watched Kim K’s movie with Ray J, they would have a man!!!!!!