Tyler Perry Will be Recognized by The Academy at the 2021 Oscars
After three decades in the entertainment business, Tyler Perry is set to be recognized by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences at the 93rd Academy Awards scheduled for late April. The multi-hyphenate will receive the 2021 Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award for his proven record of charity and community fostering.
"Tyler’s cultural influence extends far beyond his work as a filmmaker,” said Academy President David Rubin to Variety. “He has quietly and steadily focused on humanitarian and social justice causes from the beginning of his career, caring for people who are most often ignored.”
Last year's receipient was Geena Davis for her work advocating for and supporting gender equality in media. Alongside Perry, the Motion Picture Television Fund will also receive a Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award after providing generous financial assistance to those in the entertainment industry in need of childcare, senior care, living expenses, etc. throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
“The work of the MPTF is more vital than ever, and the organization has gone above and beyond to help our community,” Rubin continued. “The sheer number of individuals and families—from every corner of our industry’s workforce—aided during the pandemic and over the last 100 years is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Usually, this award is given in the fall at the Academy’s Governors Awards. This is also the first time the award will go to an organization or have two recipients in one year. However, the Board of Governors voted to bend the rules in light of this unusual past year to appropriately honor these deserving parties.
