AceShowbiz - Standing at the podium during the Paley Honors Fall Gala at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, Tyler Perry opened up about the painful experiences that shaped his life. The renowned actor and filmmaker, known for his resilience and creativity, reflected on the deep-seated traumas he endured as a child and the intensive therapy that is helping him to heal.

Perry's speech touched on moments of profound hardship. He recalled an incident where a journalist's photo of Perry at age five brought back memories of his late mother, causing an emotional moment. "It's been 15 years, almost to the day, that she passed, so this time of year is really, really difficult for me," he said, apologizing for his overwhelming emotions.

In his candid narrative, Perry revealed he had entered intensive therapy at the age of 54 to confront the effects of his traumatic past. The session in Arizona unearthed suppressed memories, including witnessing domestic violence and experiencing sexual abuse.

One particularly disturbing recollection involved a middle school teacher who callously dissected his pet hamster in front of the class. "I saw myself walking home with this empty cage and realizing that no one asked me what happened or why the cage was empty. Not one person in my life," Perry recounted.

Despite these harrowing experiences, Perry emphasized that those who hurt him did not "steal my compassion" or "rob me of my heart and my care for others." Instead, he found strength in his ability to heal and encouraged others to do the same.

"Don't let anybody steal your ability to heal," he urged the audience, "And I can tell you, at 55 years old, I am the freest version of myself that I've ever been." He shared his intent to love and spread joy as much as he can, aspiring to make both his late mother and his son proud.

The evening was a testament to Perry's resilience and his unwavering commitment to turning his pain into a force for good. He concluded by expressing gratitude to the Paley Center and those who supported him, stating, "This moment represents people asking me, 'Why is your cage empty?' So I thank you, and I bless you and I appreciate it. God bless you."

If you suspect child abuse, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child. For victims of sexual abuse, text "STRENGTH" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. For suicide prevention resources, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org.