Academy Award-winning actress and comedian Mo’Nique has publicly addressed filmmaker Tyler Perry following his heartfelt remarks at the funeral of R&B singer Angie Stone. Perry’s eulogy highlighted the injustices Stone faced in the music industry, prompting Mo’Nique to reflect on her own experiences with Perry and the entertainment industry at large.
Tyler Perry’s Tribute to Angie Stone
During Angie Stone’s funeral service at the Word of Faith Cathedral in Austell, Georgia, Tyler Perry expressed his frustration over the singer’s treatment by the music industry. He lamented, “I’m angry at the way she was treated… All of those years, all of those songs, all of that money that was owed to her. Where is it? It’s wrong.” Perry emphasized the need for artists to receive their rightful earnings and recognition, stating, “I’m tired of seeing us struggle and go through things and work hard and not reap the benefits of what we were supposed to reap.”
Open Letter by Mo’Nique
Inspired by Perry’s sentiments, Mo’Nique penned an open letter addressing what she perceives as contradictions between his public advocacy and his private actions toward her. She began by extending condolences to Stone’s family, acknowledging the singer’s legacy and the inspiration drawn from her fight for fairness.
In her letter, Mo’Nique directly addressed Perry, referencing four specific points from his eulogy:
- She noted that while Perry condemned Angie’s mistreatment, he had labeled Mo’Nique as “difficult to work with” despite never collaborating with her. She questioned, “How can you advocate for fairness while perpetuating the same treatment?”
- Mo’Nique highlighted Perry’s query about the money Stone was owed, drawing a parallel to a public apology he allegedly promised her in 2016. She stated, “The false narrative you fueled blackballed me, costing me tens of millions. Where’s the restitution for that?”
- She recalled Perry’s frustration over Black artists not receiving their due, juxtaposing it with his request for her to promote the film “Precious” without compensation. Mo’Nique questioned, “How does that align with your message?”
- Addressing Perry’s emphasis on treating “children of God” with care, Mo’Nique reminded him of his responsibility to act with love and truth. She mentioned, “You assured me of an apology years ago, yet it has never come.”
Mo’Nique concluded her letter by urging Perry to rectify the wrongs done to her and her family, invoking a biblical reference: “What will it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose his soul?”
Community Reactions
The open letter has sparked diverse reactions on social media. Some users criticized the timing of Mo’Nique’s message, suggesting it was inappropriate to address personal grievances immediately after a funeral. One commenter noted, “I get it, but something about the timing don’t sit right with me.” Another added, “Wrong place, wrong time, sis!”
Conversely, others supported Mo’Nique’s decision to speak out, commending her for addressing longstanding issues. A supporter wrote, “Everyone tells her to let it go, but if you were in her shoes, could you honestly just let it go? I support you, Mo’Nique!”