Tyler Perry To Create New Shows For Oprah’s OWN Network

The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) has just signed a multi-year deal with Tyler Perry.

The Huffington Post reports that Perry will create several scripted TV shows over the next few years for the OWN Network. Two of those shows could hit the airwaves by the middle of next year.

Perry, who has created hit shows like House of Payne and Meet the Browns, will write, direct, and produce the new shows on OWN.

Perry said:

“It’s a dream realized to partner with Oprah and bring scripted programming to OWN. She has accomplished so much with the network and I’m excited to work with her to be a part of its continued growth.”

Perry’s shows House of Payne and Meet the Browns will continue to air on TBS, but Perry will now exclusively produce for OWN. The two shows slated for 2013 will be the network’s first scripted series.

Oprah added:

“I have been looking forward to the day when we would be in the position to enter the world of scripted television. That day has come. We are all energized by the opportunity to collaborate with Tyler who has a proven track record for producing highly successful cable series. He has an incredible ability to illuminate life stories and characters in his unique voice and inspires and encourages people all over the world.”

The NY Times reports that Perry was toying with the idea of starting his own network last year. Instead of starting his own network, Perry will become a big part of Oprah’s network.

David Zaslav, president and CEO of Discovery Communications, said:

“Bringing Tyler Perry exclusively to OWN is a major coup. Today’s announcement demonstrates the power of the Oprah brand to attract some of the biggest names in television and film to OWN … OWN’s growth over the past nine months has been nothing short of phenomenal and, with the continued support of our advertising and affiliate Partners, this bold move into scripted entertainment positions OWN to continue that momentum going forward.”