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Goodbye Madea: Tyler Perry Says ‘Family Funeral' Right Time to Walk Away From Signature Role

Perry admits to being a bit nostalgic about walking away from the character, but believes it's the right time

Get your hankies out America... and get ready to say goodbye to everyone's favorite foul-mouthed, wisecracking grandma.

After 11 plays and 12 films that have grossed $496 million and counting, Tyler Perry is putting Madea out to pasture following the forthcoming "A Madea Family Funeral."

Perry, who's acting roles also include parts in 2014's Ben Affleck thriller "Gone Girl" and the current Oscar-nominated "Vice" where he plays Colin Powell opposite Christian Bale, admits to being a bit nostalgic about walking away from his signature character, but believes it's the right time.

“I’m so, so grateful for everything Madea has brought to my life, but, you know, I’m turning 50 and I certainly don’t want to be her age playing her,” he says. “I feel she’s had a great run and I’m full of gratitude for it.”

Perry believes Madea has etched out a place in cinematic history that, much like the character, might not be entirely expected but has meant a lot to audiences. “I think lots of people found a voice through Madea and the thing that makes me happiest is that Madea has given people some really good, fun times and given entire families a way to laugh together,” he says.

"A Madea Family Funeral" hits theaters Feb. 28.

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