Meghan's billionaire friend Tyler Perry gives frosty answer when asked about lending Duchess of Sussex his LA home
Tyler Perry's terse response to questions about his assistance to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry during their transition to life in the U.S. highlights his sensitivity to the intense public interest in their relationship. His remark, "I didn't," coupled with his observation about the media’s "insatiable appetite" for details about the Sussexes, suggests a desire to distance himself from becoming part of the narrative around the couple.
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Tyler Perry is photographed with his friend Meghan Markle at the Paley Honors Fall Gala on December 4 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills
Perry's comment that Meghan, as a California native, "knows California well" downplays his role in their adjustment and reinforces that his involvement was more about providing temporary refuge than actively guiding their resettlement. This reserved approach underscores Perry's awareness of how any mention of the Sussexes can overshadow his broader work and personal life, likely fueling his cautious and measured responses.
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Media mogul Tyler Perry, 55, is seen while appearing in the 2022 Netflix documentary Harry & Meghan
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Tyler Perry's luxury Hollywood home that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stayed in when they moved to California |
Tyler Perry’s sharp responses during the Sunday Times interview reveal his discomfort with the unrelenting scrutiny surrounding Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. When asked about the public’s fascination with the couple, Perry’s retorts—directing the question back to the interviewer and dismissing the premise by claiming disinterest in the media—reflect a clear boundary-setting.
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Meghan Markle, 43, dazzled during a solo red carpet appearance on Wednesday, as she supported her friend Tyler Perry at The Paley Honors gala in Beverly Hills
This tension contrasts with the narrative shared in Netflix's Harry & Meghan documentary, where Perry was portrayed as a deeply empathetic figure who provided critical support during a challenging time for the Sussexes. Meghan’s revelation about their early connection, describing how she found comfort in confiding in someone “who knows nothing at all,” underscores Perry’s unique role in their story.
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Meghan attended the event without Harry, who was in New York
The disparity between Perry’s personal generosity and his reluctance to engage publicly about the relationship points to the complications of navigating friendships with globally high-profile individuals. His guarded demeanor may also stem from an effort to avoid having his words misinterpreted or sensationalized, a frequent occurrence in the media’s coverage of the Sussexes.
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The Duchess of Sussex and husband Prince Harry, 40, were part of the Tribute Host Committee Chairs for the event, though he was not present on the red carpet
The bond between Tyler Perry and Meghan Markle was on display at The Paley Honors gala, where Meghan attended to celebrate Perry's remarkable career achievements. Held at the prestigious Beverly Wilshire Hotel, the event honored Perry, one of the most influential figures in media, with the Paley Honors Award.
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The actress wowed at the event, following reports that she and Harry have taken a 'twin track' approach to appearances that will see them doing more things on their own
Meghan made a striking appearance in a strapless black Oscar de la Renta gown featuring a front slit, paired with elegant Celine heels. Her look was elevated by a dazzling Logan Hollowell diamond necklace and rings from Lorraine Schwartz and Engender. As part of the Tribute Host Committee Chairs, Meghan and Prince Harry contributed to the evening’s success, although Harry did not join her on the red carpet.
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The Duke of Sussex speaks onstage during The New York Times Dealbook Summit 2024 in the Big Apple recently
This public display of support underscores the depth of Perry's and Meghan's friendship, which began during a pivotal time in the Sussexes' lives. Their connection has clearly endured, with Perry continuing to play a significant role in their circle.
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Perry previously shared about his friendship with the royal couple: 'They hid out at my house for a long time. It was so great'
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle appear to be navigating their public roles with increasing independence. While Meghan dazzled at The Paley Honors gala in Los Angeles, Harry participated in the annual DealBook Summit in New York alongside high-profile attendees like Jeff Bezos and Bill Clinton. At the summit, Harry reiterated the couple's decision not to return to the UK with their children, Archie and Lilibet, citing security concerns and the limitations such a move would impose on their upbringing. Harry emphasized his focus on being "the best husband and the best dad."
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Sparkling around her neck was an exquisite diamond necklace
Meghan's appearance at the gala, which honored her close friend Tyler Perry, was marked by effortless elegance. Her relaxed updo and delicate makeup complemented a gold Cartier Love bracelet, a fitting choice for the occasion. The couple's contrasting schedules reflect their reported "twin track" approach to public engagements, allowing them to pursue separate commitments while remaining aligned in their broader goals.
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She had a gold Cartier bracelet on her wrist
The couple's enduring bond with Perry, who famously supported them during their transition to life in the U.S., continues to play a prominent role in their lives. In September, the Sussexes attended Perry's star-studded birthday bash alongside Oprah and other A-list guests, highlighting the strength of their friendship.
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The Duchess looked to be in great spirits, despite flying solo for the night
The Paley Honors gala celebrating Tyler Perry was a star-studded affair, with Meghan Markle among the notable attendees. On the red carpet, Perry and Meghan shared a warm embrace, showcasing their close friendship. Perry also posed with actress Tika Sumpter, who turned heads in a dazzling silver gown.
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She walked the red carpet solo before meeting up with Perry
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Back in 2020, after Harry and Meghan announced that they were saying goodbye to their royal duties and relocating to California, the couple, along with their then-one-year-old son, Archie, spent a few months living in Tyler's Beverly Hills mansion
The event drew a mix of Hollywood royalty and industry icons, including actress Kerry Washington, who stunned in a vibrant blue gown, and Tina Knowles, Beyoncé's mother, who brought sophistication in a black blazer dress. Actress Yvette Nicole Brown opted for a chic black velvet suit and matching heels, adding a touch of modern elegance to the night.
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Actress Kerry Washington, 47, was also present to celebrate Perry, and looked stunning in a vibrant blue gown
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Beyonce's mom, Tina Knowles, 70, made the event as well, rocking a black blazer dress
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(L-R) Perry, Nicole Avant, Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO, Netflix, and Maureen
The evening was a celebration not only of Perry's remarkable career but also of the friendships and connections he's cultivated along the way, as reflected in the warmth and camaraderie shared among the guests.
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Maureen looked glamorous in a fiery red gown
Tyler Perry’s recognition at The Paley Honors gala was a tribute to his profound influence on media and culture. Upon receiving the Paley Honors Award, Perry reflected on his career, stating, “Throughout my career, I have strived to bring people together and to give a voice to those often underrepresented in media. Media has served as a vital platform for this mission, and I’m honoured to receive this award from The Paley Center for Media.”
Maureen J. Reidy, President and CEO of The Paley Center for Media, praised Perry’s impact, highlighting his ability to drive cultural and industry change: “With each new project, he continues to move our industry, and our culture, forward, and it is our great privilege to present Tyler with our highest honor, The Paley Honors Award.”
The Tribute Host Committee Chairs included a stellar lineup of media and entertainment luminaries, such as Ariel Emanuel, Whoopi Goldberg, Taraji P. Henson, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Gayle King, George Lucas, Mellody Hobson, Ted Sarandos, and Kerry Washington, among others. Their participation underscored Perry’s extraordinary legacy and the wide-reaching impact of his work in shaping media representation and storytelling.
Tyler Perry was honored by The Paley Center for Media as “one of the most inspiring, versatile, prolific, and innovative creatives working in media today.” The recognition celebrated his extraordinary contributions to television and film, with a portfolio that includes over 2,000 episodes of television and 28 feature films directed, written, and produced. This accolade further underscores his transformative influence on media and storytelling.
The Paley Center for Media, a non-profit dedicated to preserving television and radio history and exploring their cultural impact, hosted the event. This reflects its mission to spotlight figures who have significantly shaped the media landscape.
Perry's connection with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle was also highlighted in the narrative of his generosity and friendship. After the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from royal duties in 2020, Perry offered his Beverly Hills mansion as a sanctuary for the couple and their son Archie.
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It comes after Prince Harry revealed that he and Meghan have no plans to return to the United Kingdom with Archie, five, and Lilibet, three; pictured at the DealBook summit last Wednesday
In a 2022 interview with The Cut, Meghan shared the origins of their bond, revealing that Perry reached out after her 2018 wedding to Harry. He sent her a note expressing empathy for the pressures she was experiencing, offering his support. This gesture marked the beginning of a close friendship that grew despite the two not meeting in person initially. Perry’s continued kindness, including providing his private jet and security team during their transition, has made him an invaluable ally to the Sussexes.
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The Duke of Sussex and Meghan relocated to California in 2020. Pictured this year in Nigeria
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's enduring friendship with Tyler Perry has been a cornerstone in their journey to establishing a new life in Southern California. Reflecting on this connection, Meghan told The Cut that Perry's support came at a pivotal moment, likening their early conversations to the kind of openness one might share with a stranger. "Sometimes, you can tell your life story to a stranger on a plane as opposed to some of the people that are closest to you," she remarked.
Tyler Perry has also spoken warmly about hosting the couple after they stepped back from royal duties in 2020. "They hid out at my house for a long time. It was so great," he said. His gesture of kindness began with a note sent through their shared publicist, in which he offered support. Months later, Meghan reached out, leading to what Perry described as a heartfelt, therapist-like conversation.
This hospitality, according to reports, played a critical role in the Sussexes' transition to life in the United States, providing them with the space and security they needed at the time.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has confirmed that he and Meghan have no immediate plans to return to the United Kingdom with their children, Archie and Lilibet. Speaking at the DealBook Summit in New York, Harry cited security concerns and their desire to provide a stable future for their children as key reasons for staying in the U.S. He emphasized his commitment to his family, saying his focus is on "being the best husband and the best dad that I can be."
Prince Harry provided insights into his family life and perspectives on modern parenting during his appearance at the DealBook Summit in New York. Reflecting on life in Montecito, California, where he and Meghan Markle have resided since 2020, Harry shared: "I very much enjoy living here and bringing up my kids here." He emphasized the benefits of their U.S. life, noting activities he can enjoy with his children, Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3, that would not be feasible in the UK, citing security concerns and lifestyle differences.
Harry reiterated his personal priorities, saying his focus is on "being the best husband and the best dad that I can be."
The Duke also weighed in on a topic close to his heart: children's relationship with social media. While he acknowledged the platform's risks, he cautioned against banning children from using social media outright, arguing that such restrictions could lead to family conflicts and social challenges, such as playground bullying. Instead, Harry advocated for increased transparency and accountability from social media companies to create safer environments for young users.
Prince Harry has secured a major musical performance for the opening night of the Invictus Games in February 2025. Katy Perry, a Grammy-nominated pop star, will headline the event, which will be held in Vancouver, Canada. Katy is a neighbor of Harry and Meghan in Montecito, California, and is close to the couple, along with her partner Orlando Bloom. This marks a high-profile addition to the Invictus Games, which Harry established for disabled military veterans.
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