Award-winning filmmaker Tyler Perry is raising eyebrows with his parenting approach, revealing that his son Aman, whom he shares with model and activist Gelila Bekele, does not get a Christmas list and flies coach despite his father’s wealth.
Perry opened up about his parenting philosophy on a recent episode of Sherri Shepherd Show, where he shared how he and Bekele are raising their 10-year-old to value hard work and humility.
When Shepherd asked if Aman had given Perry a Christmas list, Perry quipped, “He don't get no Christmas list. He gets two things. He gets books and Legos.” He added with a laugh, “He don't have a job. What else is he gonna get?”
Perry recounted a moment when Aman complained about the long lines at the airport while flying commercial.
In response, Perry and Bekele decided to stop letting Aman use his father’s private jet altogether. “So they’ve been going coach for years,” Perry said.
“He’s not gonna be one of those ridiculous, spoiled rich kids. I can’t stand that. He ain’t got no money!”
Despite their separation in 2020, Perry and Bekele co-parent seamlessly and are aligned on teaching their son life lessons.
Aman, born in November 2014, is kept out of the public eye to allow him a more grounded upbringing.
@sherrishowtv Tyler Perry tells Sherri all the right ways he’s raising his son! #sherrishepherd #sherrishowtv #tylerperry
♬ original sound - SHERRI
Perry’s comments have sparked debate online, with users taking to TikTok to share their opinions.
@Farai questioned the approach: “I’ve never understood this... I’m working so that my family never struggles. I’m not saying they should be spoilt, but if I can afford luxury, they’ll get it. All I need is kindness and respect.”
On the other hand, @Maajenn|Kontent Kreator praised Perry’s perspective: “Some of you don’t understand. His father’s name will open doors for him, but first, he has to understand that hard work is the way. They’re preserving the legacy.”
Others like @lightskinkeithsweat disagreed with Perry’s methods: “I don’t agree with this. You can spoil a kid and they won’t grow up to be spoiled rich kids. I thought the idea of being rich was so your kids don’t have to experience the struggle.”
@Robin added, “Your children can enjoy wealth and still learn good life lessons and be humble. Just have to stand on business.”
Perry is not alone in his approach. Fellow actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has made it clear that his daughters will not be handed everything.
In an interview, he shared that he wants his children to grow up with a sense of appreciation, understanding that success comes through hard work, not just the benefits of their father’s fame.
IOL