It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Steve Mensch, President and General Manager of Tyler Perry Studios. Steve tragically lost his life Friday evening in a plane crash near Florida’s Gulf Coast. A cherished leader and advocate for the film industry, Steve’s contributions to Tyler Perry Studios and the broader production community leave a lasting legacy.

A Pillar of the Tyler Perry Studios Family

“We are incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear friend Steve Mensch,” Tyler Perry Studios said in a heartfelt statement. “Steve was a cherished member of our team for more than eight years and well-beloved in the community of Atlanta. 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.”

Steve’s leadership, warmth, and vision were instrumental in the growth of Tyler Perry Studios. Since joining the team in 2016, he helped transform the sprawling 330-acre studio, built on the site of a former Army base in southern Atlanta, into one of the premier production facilities in the world. His guidance and expertise ensured that the studio thrived not only as a production hub but also as a cornerstone of Atlanta’s vibrant film community.

A Visionary Leader for Georgia’s Film Industry

Steve’s contributions to the film industry extended far beyond Tyler Perry Studios. A passionate advocate for Georgia’s film and television sector, he was a driving force behind the state’s $1 billion annual film tax credit, which has made Georgia a top destination for global productions.

Through his work with Feature Systems and Turner Broadcasting, Steve played a key role in shaping the film landscape in Georgia. He helped establish the Georgia Production Partnership, an influential entertainment industry lobbying group, and worked tirelessly to position Georgia as a competitive market for film and television production.

“He was trying to formulate the vision for the marketplace before the Olympics and wanted a think tank of people in the community to make Georgia competitive,” actor and industry leader Ric Reitz shared. “He was an important figure in our growth to become a strong film and TV market.”

An Innovator and Builder

Steve’s career was defined by his ability to turn ideas into reality. Before joining Tyler Perry Studios, he lent his expertise to building a major studio in China and played a vital role in launching Third Rail Studios in Atlanta. These efforts demonstrated his unmatched ability to bring people and resources together to create spaces that foster creativity and innovation.

At Tyler Perry Studios, Steve’s work reached its pinnacle. His leadership helped establish the studio as a hub for storytelling, where projects like Perry’s recently released war drama The Six Triple Eight—shot at the studio and released the day of Steve’s passing—continue to shape the cultural landscape.

The crash that claimed Steve’s life occurred in Homosassa, Florida, about 60 miles north of Tampa. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident.

Steve’s legacy is one of vision, collaboration, and tireless advocacy. His work ensured that Georgia became one of the world’s leading centers for film and television, and his contributions to Tyler Perry Studios cemented its place as a beacon for creativity and opportunity.

The team at Stagerunner send our deepest condolences to Steve’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.