Tyler Perry's $1 Million Gift to the NAACP

He's the king of urban plays, a TV producer and one of Hollywood's hottest filmmakers but now we can add one more title to Tyler Perry's resume: Philanthropist.

Perry will give $1 million to the NAACP over next four years, according to a report from People.com. It's the largest gift ever by a single person to the NAACP and will commemorate the group's centennial anniversary.

"I feel so honored and blessed to be in a position where I can give," said Perry. "Had it not been for the perseverance and vision of the thousands who came before me in the 100 years of this legendary organization, I would not be in the position I am in today."

Perry is a native of New Orleans who started producing plays in Atlanta. His work on the stage caught on and he became the biggest name in the urban theater world. In 2004, Perry brought his act to the big screen with 'Diary of Mad Black Woman.' He often appears in his own films, usually in drag as the famous "Medea" character.
His TV work includes 'Tyler Perry's House of Payne' and 'Tyler Perry's Meet the Browns.'

However, Perry has been criticized for his broad portrayals of African-American life.

"I still think there is a lot of stuff out today that is coonery and buffoonery,'' said Spike Lee on the 'Our World with Black Enterprise' TV show in the spring. "We shouldn't think that Tyler Perry is going to make the same film that I am going to make ... but at the same time, for me, the imaging is troubling and it harkens back to 'Amos n' Andy.'"

The NAACP sees it otherwise.

"Tyler is a courageous pioneer in bringing positive images of African American culture and struggles to the screen," said NAACP chairman Julian Bond. "His remarkable journey from poverty and childhood abuse to become one of the world's most successful filmmakers and entrepreneurs is an inspiration to us all."

As of late, Perry executive produced 'Precious,' considered to be a strong Oscar contender.

The NAACP was formed in 1909.