Is the same type of drag performer, a straight man who happens to play a female character, as Barry Humphries, aka Dame Edna Everage.

His plays often reference The Color Purple (1985), which starred Oprah Winfrey. He credits "The Oprah Winfrey Show" (1986) with inspiring him to write.

Before becoming a successful film-maker with Diary of a Mad Black Woman (2005), he was already the owner of a successful play company that tours the country and caters to African-Americans. His plays are also recorded and sold as DVDs.

Has been writing plays since he was 18. As of March 2005, his eight plays have grossed over US$75 million in tickets and DVD sales.

Often quotes famous black-focused movies such as What's Love Got to Do with It (1993) and The Color Purple (1985). These two are especially quoted in Madea's Family Reunion (2006).

Has a 12-acre estate outside Atlanta.

2007 - Ranked #7 on EW's The 50 Smartest People in Hollywood.