Tyler Perry Studios manager Steve Mensch dies in plane crash
Steve Mensch, the president and manager of the film corporation Tyler Perry Studios, died in a plane crash at the age of 62 on December 6th.
Mensch was piloting a plane when he crashed just outside Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast and was discovered by highway patrol, with full details still under investigation.
The studio confirmed the news, saying it is “incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear friend Steve Mensch” and described him as a “cherished” and “well-beloved” team member.
It continued, “It’s hard to imagine not seeing him smiling throughout the halls. We will miss him dearly. Our heart goes out to his family as we all send them our prayers.”
Perry also shared a tribute of his own social media, expressing his shock at the sudden news and describing his partner as someone who was well-liked and appreciated in the studio. He also urged people to openly appreciate those around them in the wake of his death.
“I’ve been trying to understand this tragedy all day—what went wrong with that plane,” he wrote, continuing, “Steve loved flying, and he loved that plane; he took so much pride in it. Steve Mensch was truly a kind soul and a great leader at the studio.”
Perry added, “We all adored him and are devastated that he’s gone. I’m praying for his family as we all try to make sense of this heartbreak. Life is but a moment; we are like vapors. Hold strong to the people you love AND TELL THEM!”
Mensch has managed the expansive 330-acre facility Tyler Perry Studios since 2016, when he joined from Third Rail Studios, overseeing general operations and contributing to its expansion, including the addition of sound stages and production solutions.
Throughout his time at Tyler Perry Studios, Mensch became one of the most influential figures in the film and TV community in Georgia, Atlanta, with a studio that boasts a luxurious White House-esque hotel lobby, a 16,000-square-foot mansion, a commercial plane, and other impressive facilities like a vintage diner.
Following his death, the Governor of Georgia, Brian Kemp, shared his condolences, saying Mensch was “a good man” whose contributions state-wide cannot be understated as he was “instrumental” in providing opportunities to its people.
On the same day that Mensch passed away, Perry released Six Triple Eight with Netflix, a true story following the Women’s Army Corps and its only unit of colour to be stationed overseas during World War II.
Never Miss A Scene
The Far Out Film Newsletter
All the latest film news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.