The internet was buzzing when it was announced that Tyler Perry inked a deal with Oprah and her OWN Network.  As major as this collaboration may seem, I’m kind of skeptical as to what will Tyler bring to the table. Will these new projects give Oprah the ratings boost that she so desperately needs?

 

According to the Associated Press, Tyler Perry has signed on to develop, produce, and write two scripted series.  Having the lengthy experience in film production as he does, Tyler has been responsible for several high grossing movies, television shows on TBS, and the undeniably funny “Madea”  franchise.  But can his consistent “average black family doing average everyday things” type of programming be the “it” thing that OWN needs?

 

Hmmm….that’s a difficult question.  Even in her long running daytime talk show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, O catered to a very diverse audience.  Tyler on the other hand hasn’t really accomplished this task.  His core fanbase is African-American.  So, will he be able to create programs that will crossover to Oprah’s wide range of viewers?  We’ll will soon see.  If Tyler can dig deeper into his creative psyche, I think he could develop two great shows.  He definitely has enough money to hire the best writers and production crews.  Also, he’s bringing along his hardcore fanbase (which are majority African-American).  So this means that millions of Blacks who don’t tune into OWN on the regular, will now have a reason to.  OWN, at this point and despite of a decent spike in ratings on “celebrity” Sundays, desperately needs ratings.

 

I’m rooting for Tyler and Oprah! I can’t wait to see what these best buds have in store.

 

 

Do you think this collaboration will take OWN to the next level?