A few months ago, in February, Tyler Perry made headlines when he halted an $800 million studio expansion due to advancements in AI.
Despite this setback, Perry continues to make significant moves in the business world. He recently inked a multi-million dollar, multi-year deal with BET Media Group and partnered with Asylum Entertainment. Furthermore, BET Media Group will be responsible for running eight of his shows with the potential for renewal.
Perry also expanded his agreement with Netflix for several TV series. These ventures demonstrate Perry's strong investment in the entertainment industry. However, the pause on Perry's $800 million studio expansion is worth noting, as it suggests a potential exercise of financial caution or a strategic pivot in response to the evolving technological landscape.
In other news, Meghan Markle recently made headlines for her collaboration with Netflix. Netflix rented a house in Montecito for filming a new cooking show. Rumors circulated that Markle initially reached out to Perry, hoping to use his facilities for free to reduce production costs. This approach aimed to impress Netflix by cutting expenses and increasing net income. However, Perry, who is currently navigating financial challenges and industry competition, declined the request for free space, stating that Netflix would need to pay if they wanted to use his facilities. Reportedly, Markle was upset by this response.
Markle is developing a new Netflix show focused on the joys of cooking, gardening, entertainment, and friendship. However, experts believe that showcasing a lavish Montecito lifestyle could become an issue for viewers. Lin Carritt, a PR guru, suggested that with the launch of two Netflix documentaries, viewers will see different sides of the couple. According to Carritt, the series will provide a glimpse of a softer side as it celebrates the joys of cooking and entertaining friends. She later mentioned that the Duchess has transitioned from a woman with political ambition to someone making jam, and it would be great for viewers to gain insight into her passions.
In addition to working with Netflix, Markle has also launched a new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard, and sent strawberry preserves to 50 A-listers and friends. However, there is concern that the documentary will showcase a seemingly perfect life, and the public may prefer a more relatable story. According to the expert, while Markle focuses on her series, Prince Harry will executive produce a documentary about polo. This documentary could provide an opportunity for him to showcase his true self. A professional explained that, having played polo at a high level since a young age, this is something he excels at. Prior to Meghan and the controversy surrounding Prince Harry, the British public adored him, and hopefully, this documentary will allow his personality to shine through.
Another royal expert suggests that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's trip to Nigeria may have benefits beyond promoting good causes like the Invictus Games and mental health initiatives of their foundation. With the focus of their three-day trip on Sunday being a visit to a polo field in Lagos, it hints at their next Netflix project, a show about professional polo players. Former BBC Royal correspondent Michael Cole, however, stated that this was important for Netflix.
He noted that it would result in a lot of high-quality material for Netflix's podcasts and shows. Cole mentioned this on GB News, saying that with their substantial $100 million contract, they need to produce decent material. He added that it's impossible to accomplish that if they're always secluded in their California Camelot on Montecito's hilltop; they need to get out there and engage with the people.
