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Perry Becomes First Black Top Studio Owner

Posted on: Sunday, 5 October 2008, 15:00 CDT

A number of celebrities say they are impressed by Tyler Perry's success in becoming the first black producer to own a major U.S. studio.

Actress Cicely Tyson said her movie career paled in comparison to Perry's accomplishments, which now include Saturday's opening of the 30-acre Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

"I never dreamed I would witness this in my lifetime," the former Oscar nominee said. "What I've been able to achieve in my career is minuscule in comparison to this."

Others on hand included actor Sydney Poitier and talk show host Oprah Winfrey.

Perry transformed a former airline reservations center into his studio. For the "Family that Preys" director, finding the Atlanta site was an instance of divine intervention.

"I looked closer and realized someone had taped Bible scriptures on the gate," he told the newspaper of his first experience with the site two years ago. "Then I knew. I jumped in full steam with no fear. Nothing but the grace of God has brought me to this place."

Source: United Press International

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