Hollywood mogul hints at growing weariness with constant media scrutiny of his friendship with the Sussexes, despite offering them shelter in 2020.

Tyler Perry, the Hollywood mogul behind iconic films such as Madea and Why Did I Get Married?, has offered a refreshingly candid response when asked about his close friendship with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry.

Perry, whose fortune is estimated at $1.4 billion, has long been a reliable confidant of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. In the summer of 2020, as the couple transitioned from royal life to private citizens, they sought refuge at one of Perry’s lavish California estates. At the time, the Sussexes were adjusting to their new life in the United States, having stepped away from their roles in the British royal family. Perry, without hesitation, extended his generosity by not only offering them a place to stay but also providing the use of his private jet and security team.

The gesture was prominently featured in Meghan and Harry’s 2022 Netflix documentary series, where Meghan expressed her deep gratitude. In a raw moment, the Duchess revealed that Perry’s kindness moved her to tears, describing how she found it easier to “open up to someone who knows nothing at all” about her public persona.

However, despite the ongoing media interest in their friendship, Perry now appears to be growing weary of being constantly asked about the Sussexes. When asked in a recent interview with The Times about how he helped Meghan and Harry prepare for their move to America, Perry responded with a pointed remark about the intense public focus on their lives.

“I’ll say this,” Perry noted, “what I learnt about mentioning them is that there’s this insatiable appetite to know all about them. Any question that’s asked becomes the headline of anything I say.” His frustration was palpable as he explained how the constant media attention surrounding the couple had begun to overshadow his own words and intentions.

In the interview, Perry also addressed the nature of the Sussexes’ move, mentioning that Meghan, originally from California, didn’t need much preparation for settling into her home state. As for Harry, Perry didn’t elaborate on the specifics, instead focusing on the overwhelming attention that their relationship had attracted.

Though Perry’s comments may hint at a growing frustration with the constant media spotlight on his friends, his affection for Meghan and Harry remains clear. He is the godfather to their daughter, Lilibet, and has previously spoken fondly of their children. Last year, during an appearance on Let’s Talk Off-Camera with Kelly Ripa, Perry gushed over Lili, calling her “so beautiful,” and expressing how much he cherishes his role as her godfather. He also praised their son, Archie, describing both children as “beautiful” and expressing admiration for the couple’s parenting.

The once-private friendship between Perry and the Sussexes has been thrust into the public eye in recent years, with Perry becoming a familiar face in their documentary and interviews. However, his latest remarks indicate that even Hollywood royalty like Perry can feel the weight of being continuously associated with a high-profile couple under relentless media scrutiny.

Despite his exasperation, Perry’s words indicate a bond built on deep affection and genuine friendship, even if he’d rather the world focus on other aspects of his life.