Tyler Perry Pledges $100K to Support Marvin Winans After Viral Fundraising Fallout

In a bold display of solidarity, filmmaker and philanthropist Tyler Perry has donated $100,000 to Bishop Marvin Winans’s Perfecting Church in Detroit following backlash from a controversial fundraising moment that went viral online.

The Viral Incident: What Sparked the Backlash

On October 19, during the church’s annual “Day of Giving”, Bishop Winans asked congregants to contribute “$1,000 plus one.” The phrasing sparked confusion. Some interpreted it as giving $1,001; others believed it meant giving two separate $1,000 gifts ($2,000).

During the service, longtime member Roberta McCoy came forward with $1,235, declaring she gave “in faith.” But Winans interrupted her, saying, “That’s only $1,200,” and instructed that she come back with the remainder to fulfill the original request. BIN: Black Information Network+4

That interaction was captured and shared widely, drawing sharp criticism that Winans had publicly judged or shamed a congregant over her offering.

Clarifications and Apologies

Both Winans and McCoy later responded, insisting the moment was misconstrued. McCoy affirmed:

“He absolutely did not rebuke me. There was a correction … because pastor gave instruction on the lines to get into.” BIN: Black Information Network+2Christian Post+2

Winans explained he was managing the flow of giver calling donors “by increments to prevent congestion and discomfort for congregants. He also said he personally apologized to McCoy afterward.

The church has been fundraising for a long-stalled sanctuary expansion project, which has faced delays since its inception years ago.

Perry’s Donation: Support in a Troubled Moment

Perry’s six-figure donation comes more than a week after the viral clip circulated, and it is widely seen as an affirmation of support for Winna’s and the ministry through a challenging period.