Tyler Perry, the multi-talented actor, writer, and director, is known for his blockbuster films and beloved character Madea. However, beyond his thriving career in Hollywood, Perry’s most cherished role is that of a father. In 2014, Perry’s life took on new meaning with the arrival of his son, Aman Perry, marking the beginning of a journey filled with love, responsibility, and valuable life lessons.
The Joy of Fatherhood
Aman Perry was born on November 30, 2014, a date that carries profound meaning for Perry. The name Aman, symbolizing “peace,” reflects the deep sense of gratitude Perry felt as he embraced fatherhood. Perry often shares how holding his son has brought unparalleled joy and calm to his life. In an Instagram post shortly after Aman’s birth, Perry expressed his gratitude, writing, “I have traveled the world trying to find the peace that I have when I’m holding my sleeping son in my arms. God thank you! Amen for Aman. He’s beautiful!”
As of December 2024, Aman Perry celebrated his 10th birthday. Despite Perry’s fame, he has been intentional about keeping Aman out of the public eye, ensuring his son grows up grounded and away from media scrutiny.
A Co-Parenting Partnership with Gelila Bekele
Aman’s mother, Gelila Bekele, is a model, filmmaker, and activist who Perry dated from 2014 to 2020. Although the couple chose to part ways romantically, they remain united in their mission to provide a nurturing and balanced upbringing for their son. Perry often credits Bekele for her unwavering commitment to teaching Aman humility and the value of hard work.
During a 2022 Q&A with Gayle King at the Tribeca Film Festival, Perry reflected on their co-parenting dynamic. “Gelila is very grounded and balanced, making sure Aman stays humble. I want to give him everything because I didn’t have it, but she reminds me to keep him grounded,” Perry shared. The pair’s collaborative parenting approach ensures that Aman understands the importance of gratitude and perspective.
Raising Aman with Humility and Values
Despite Perry’s considerable wealth and success, he remains dedicated to raising Aman without excess privilege. A prime example of this is Perry’s approach to travel. While Perry often flies on his private jet, Aman, as a young boy, was accustomed to flying coach alongside his mother. In an interview with People, Perry recounted a moment when Aman requested to fly on his father’s plane. “For about four years, he flew commercial in coach so he could understand,” Perry said. “We’re very clear about not raising a spoiled kid. If I see hints of that, it’s nipped in the bud.”
This disciplined approach extends to technology and material possessions. Perry has emphasized the importance of limited screen time and encouraging reading instead. Oprah Winfrey, who serves as Aman’s godmother, often sends the young boy books as gifts, reinforcing Perry’s belief in education and learning.
Aman’s Star-Studded Godparents
Aman Perry may live a low-profile life, but he is surrounded by iconic figures. His godparents include Oprah Winfrey and the late Cicely Tyson, two individuals who have played influential roles in Perry’s life and career. During an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, Perry fondly recalled how Winfrey’s thoughtful gifts had a lasting impact. “Oprah sends Aman the best books. He loves them. I want him to have that connection to learning.”
In return, Tyler Perry extends the same role to others. In 2021, Perry became godfather to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s daughter, Lilibet Diana. Speaking about his relationship with the royal couple in the Netflix docuseries “Harry & Meghan,” Perry described his surprise and honor when asked to take on the role. “They said, ‘We’d like for you to be Lili’s godfather,’ and I was honored,” Perry shared.
Perry’s Hopes for Aman’s Future
While Tyler Perry’s career continues to soar, his focus remains on ensuring Aman has the freedom to forge his own path. Perry has expressed that he wants Aman to grow up with a sense of identity separate from his father’s fame. “I want him to have his own name and not feel the weight of living up to who his father was,” Perry told AARP The Magazine. “His life is his own, and I want him to enjoy that without pressure.”
Perry’s desire to provide Aman with a balanced life filled with love, guidance, and independence reflects his dedication to fatherhood. Whether flying commercial, sharing family moments, or cherishing quiet evenings at home, Tyler Perry’s greatest role remains being a dad to Aman.
