Keke Palmer has come to Tyler Perry’s defense following backlash against his films. On her podcast, Baby, This Is Keke Palmer, Perry addressed criticism of his movies. He stated, “A large portion of my fans are disenfranchised, who cannot get in the Volvo and go to therapy on the weekend. You’ve got this highbrow negro who is all up in the air with his nose up looking at everything.” Perry continued, “Don’t discount these people and say their stories don’t matter. Who are you to be able to say which Black story is important, or should be told? Get out of here with that bullsh*t.”
Keke Palmer Takes to Social Media
In response to the backlash, Palmer took to X on July 24 to support Perry. She wrote, “The enemy isn’t Tyler, it’s the system that makes it hard for multiple Black artists to shine at one time. Tyler is not the gatekeeper of all Black stories; he’s just one creative who broke through the system. Advocating for others to do the same is the fight, not hating Tyler for his work that many do love.”
Palmer also responded to a critic who suggested Perry needs more writers. She countered, “I believe Perry has found a way to work in the system and employed a lot of Black people, including writers. Not just in front of the camera but behind. His set was the first set I ever saw a Black crew, so that gets my respect. You don’t have to love his movies though, I just don’t blame his movies for oppression.”
Palmer emphasized that the focus should be on uplifting other Black creatives. She noted, “I think it’s less about changing Tyler and more about uplifting and popularizing other work that we love. There is Issa Rae, Tracy Oliver, Justin Simien, Jordan Peele, Jeremy O’Harris, Janicza Bravo, Nia DaCosta, etc.”
In her continued defense, Palmer added, “He’s not the only Black creator creating, and they all deserve the right to share their perspective.” Palmer’s remarks highlight the importance of supporting diverse Black voices in the film industry.