Steve Mensch, president of Tyler Perry Studios, dies at 62 after plane crash in Florida

Tyler Perry Studios issues a statement following Steve Mensch's death in Homosassa, Florida
UPDATED DEC 9, 2024
Steve Mensch had served as the president of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta since 2016 (Getty Images)
Steve Mensch had served as the president of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta since 2016 (Getty Images)

HOMOSASSA, FLORIDA: Steve Mensch, the president of Tyler Perry Studios, tragically died at the age of 62 following a plane crash in Florida on Friday night, December 6.

According to police, Mensch was piloting a single-seater plane when it crashed on West White Dogwood Drive near Highway US 98 in Homosassa.


ATLANTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 03: Steve Mensch speaks onstage during the Atlanta Film Festival’s 2019 IMAGE Film Awards Gala at Fox Theater on April 03, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
Steve Mensch speaks onstage during the Atlanta Film Festival’s 2019 IMAGE Film Awards Gala at Fox Theater on April 3, 2019, in Atlanta, Georgia (Getty Images)

What was the cause of Steve Mensch's plane crash?

The cause of Steve Mensch's fatal plane crash is currently under investigation. He is survived by his wife and three children.

In a heartfelt statement shared with Daily Mail, Tyler Perry Studios expressed profound sadness over Mensch’s death.

“We are incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear friend, Steve Mensch. Steve was a cherished member of our team for more than 8 years and well beloved in the community of Atlanta,” the statement read.

“It is 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,” the statement added.



 

Steve Mensch's distinguished career

Steve Mensch had served as the president of Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta since 2016, shortly after the actor acquired the sprawling 330-acre former Fort McPherson army base in 2015.

Under Mensch’s leadership, the studio became a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, boasting 40 buildings, 12 sound stages, and 200 acres of backlots and greenery.

Notable productions, including Perry’s own works and popular shows like 'The Walking Dead', were filmed at the studio.



 

Mensch was instrumental in expanding its offerings, describing the lot as a “unique practical shooting location” and expressing pride in its historical significance.

Steve Mensch as an influential figure in film and TV production

Widely regarded as a trailblazer, Steve Mensch brought decades of experience in strategic planning, operations, and business development to the role.

Before joining Tyler Perry Studios, he served as president of Third Rail Studios and as the CEO of Wanda Studios Qingdao in China.

He also held key leadership roles at Turner Broadcasting in Atlanta for nearly a decade.

Mensch’s expertise and vision played a pivotal role in elevating Tyler Perry Studios to its current status.

In an interview featured on the studio’s website, he described his work as “incredibly energizing,” praising Perry’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation.

(X/@stevemensch11)
Steve Mensch was piloting a single-seater plane when it crashed in Homosassa, Florida  (X/@stevemensch11)

Mensch graduated from the University of Buffalo in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and his career spanned continents and industries, from his early days at Turner Broadcasting to his transformative work at Tyler Perry Studios.

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