Tyler Perry Fired His Aunt — and Taught Us a Masterclass on Legacy

Theo Santiago
Jul 21
2 min read

Updated: Aug 4

In a powerful conversation on the new YouTube show hosted by Kirk Franklin, Den of Kings, Tyler Perry revealed why he fired his own aunt and set strict expectations for family members relying on his success. The message? True legacy isn’t built on handouts—it’s sustained through hard boundaries and earned responsibility.

Family Isn’t Exempt from Accountability

During Den of Kings, hosted by Kirk Franklin and featuring Derrick Hayes, Jeezy, and Perry, the media mogul recalled offering his aunt a job after years of financial requests. She failed to show up for work, so he let her go.

“You want me to hand you the money, but you don’t want to work for it. That doesn’t work for me.”(Perry, 2025)

Perry emphasized that enabling others without expectations strips them of pride. This philosophy extends to his son, who must earn his rewards through chores and discipline.

Building Legacy Requires Tough Decisions

Following the passing of his mother in 2009, Perry gave family members 60 days to become gainfully employed or lose financial support. Every one of them found jobs—not for wealth, but for self-worth.

“The worst thing you can do is give someone something that handicaps them.”(Perry, 2025)

Protect the Vision, Build the Boat

Perry likened the entrepreneurial journey to building a boat: you construct it alone, then decide who’s worthy of the ride.

“Watch the family members that come putting holes in the boat you’re trying to get across the sea.”(Perry, 2025)

Call to Action

Tyler Perry’s story is a blueprint for Black and Brown founders balancing loyalty and leadership. Boundaries are not betrayal—they’re strategy. Legacy depends on discernment.

Start building your legacy by leading with clarity. Offer opportunity, not rescue. Build your boat strong—and only bring along those ready to row.