Playwright, actor, and film director Tyler Perry (1969–) began writing plays in the late 1990s; his actions rocketed him to enormous success. Perry revitalized urban theater and redefined gospel theater, drawing upon churchgoers and black audiences as role models for his characters. He created the beloved figure, Madea, who is a tall, matronly, no-nonsense black woman; Perry plays the role of Madea himself. Although some criticize him for creating stereotypical characters, Perry has been highly successful in film and television productions.