Tyler Perry is reflecting on both personal loss and recent tragedy within his studio as he navigates the emotional challenges of the holiday season. The passing of Steve Mensch, the president and general manager of Tyler Perry Studios, has cast a shadow over Perry's typically joyful time of year.
Mensch tragically died on December 6 after the single-engine plane he was piloting crashed on a road in Homosassa, Florida. He was 62 years old. According to NBC News, Tyler Perry Studios issued a heartfelt statement mourning Mensch's passing, noting, "We are incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Steve Mensch. He was a cherished member of our team for more than 8 years and well-beloved in the community of Atlanta." The studio spokesperson shared how Mensch's vibrant presence will be missed: "It is hard to envisage not seeing him smiling throughout the halls. We will miss him dearly. Our heart goes out to his family as we all send them our prayers."
Mensch was the sole occupant of the aircraft when it crashed. The Citrus County Sheriff's office confirmed his identity and closed the area around the incident for investigation. They reported on social media: "Deputies with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office are on the scene of a small-engine aircraft accident near the intersection of HWY 19 and Longfellow St. in Homosassa. At this time, southbound lanes in the area are closed and traffic is being directed." It was not until early the next morning, December 7, when the lanes were reopened.
Joining Tyler Perry Studios shortly after its transformation from an abandoned army base to one of Hollywood's largest studio spaces, Mensch played an integral role in the company's development. Perry, who is now 55, remarked during a 2019 interview, "What we're doing here at Tyler Perry Studios hasn't been done in a hundred years. We're building a major motion picture studio." Mensch's legacy is felt deeply among those who worked with him, as Perry later shared his anguish and tributes on Instagram, describing Mensch as "a kind soul" and stating, "I'm praying for his family as we all try to make sense of this heartbreak."
These recent events have coincided with Perry's own reflections on loss during the holiday season, particularly memories of his late mother, Maxine, who passed away 15 years ago this month. Speaking on CNN’s Anderson Cooper’s podcast, "All There Is," Perry discussed the unavoidable nature of grief. He said, "Grief shows up when it wants to... No matter what you think, no matter how much time has passed, it’ll show up." This time of year especially serves as a reminder of how deeply he felt his mother’s absence and the impact of her loss on his life.
Perry credited Maxine for the immense success he has achieved, noting her passing challenged his drive and purpose. He reflected, "Losing her was losing the love I felt, but also losing the purpose to keep working and grinding." It wasn't until nearly nine years after her death he could begin to channel his grief positively.
During his interview with Cooper, Perry expressed how working hard helps him cope, stating, "It's usually around this time of year... I tend to keep myself busy." He encourages others to embrace their grief rather than suppress it, explaining, "I really do feel like it’s a living thing, like it is a visitor... You can’t fight it. Let it be because... it’s gotta move through you."
With the passing of Steve Mensch, Perry's sentiments of love and loss have been heightened as he reflects on the fragility of life. Combining his tribute to Mensch and the legacy of his mother, he implores everyone to "hold strong to the people you love AND TELL THEM!" Tyler Perry continues to navigate through his grief as he puts his creative energy to work, honoring their memories through dedication and resilience.