In Hollywood, there are certain directors and producers who have reached a level of power and success that allows them a rare amount of creative freedom. This list is very short and includes names like Steven Spielberg, James Camron, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Ridley Scott. With the exception of Tyler Perry, you don’t see Black artists in this conversation. Whatever you think of the Madea filmmaker’s content, you can’t deny the success of his projects.

What makes his ascent even more interesting is that he did it on his own terms. He turned his popular stage plays into movies, which also spawned TV series. He transformed those hits into his own studio in Atlanta, building an empire of Black Excellence. Even if you don’t like Tyler Perry’s work, you have to admit he has achieved the kind of power that Black artists rarely get an opportunity at. However, there are a few directors, producers and actors who are setting themselves up to hit that status. It’s really just a question of whether they want the stability and protection of a studio behind them, or want to call their own shots with creative freedom. Check out our suggestions for Black directors who could be the next Tyler Perry.

Jordan Peele

What sets Jordan Peele apart from other filmmakers is that you immediately recognze his movies before you ever hear a word of dialogue. In the horror world, you need to have a tone that stands out from the pack; otherwise, you’re just making another scary movie that will disappear in the crowd. The way he effortlessly blends explorations of race and class into his psychological thrillers is masterful. His visuals are always unique, leaving an impact that fans analyze long after the films have left theaters.

His production company, Monkey Paw, is branching out into other genres with films like “Monkey Man” and TV series like “Scare Tactics.” His style is so distinctive that characters and set pieces from his movies appear at Universal Studios Hollywood.

When your projects have an unmistakable signature, and you’ve branched out into other elements of entertainment, you’re definitely headed to another level of success.

Shonda Rhimes

Whether it’s “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” or “Bridgerton,” Shonda Rhimes has given us some of the most intense, messiest, and most entertaining TV of the last 20 years. She and her Shondaland team excel at finding captivating stories and compelling characters for us to obsess over.

What she does better than almost any other producer is pair the right teams together to deliver the best projects. She can be the boss, and also trust the people on her teams to do their jobs. This may not sound like a big deal, but a lot of leaders aren’t great team players.

She’s already created an unforgettable TV empire, so it’s not a matter of her becoming the “next” anyone —it’s about her getting her due as a game changer.

Ava DuVernay

Ava DuVernay is an acclaimed director, who’s already a big time Hollywood power player behind the scenes. Her films routinely receive awards buzz and raves from critics. The only thing she hasn’t had is a huge box office hit, but it doesn’t seem like that’s what she’s looking for.

DuVernay is an artist in the truest sense of the word. She makes movies that speak to her creatively and tells stories that she feels need to be told. Most importantly, she’s telling our stories in a beautiful, compassionate, insightful way.

We want her to have major influence in the rooms where it happens, because we need someone like Ava advocating for quality Black entertainment.

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson

The rapper-turned-TV producer has grown his G-Unit Film & Television production company on the strength and popularity of the “Power” universe. He’s parlayed the franchise’s success into a new studio in Louisiana. He’s even sought out Perry’s advice as he embarks on new ground for his company.

The next step for Fif is to branch out into other genres that don’t revolve around crime families and gang rivalries. We’d love to see G-Unit do sci-fi, rom-coms, period pieces and maybe a musical. A new studio will offer opportunities for all kinds of unexpected projects.

Ryan Coogler

The man behind Marvel’s Wakanda universe has repeatedly proven himself as a talented storyteller. His films are unapologetically Black, showcasing our joy, heartbreak, strength and family. Based on the “Black Panther” box office alone, Coogler could write whatever ticket he wants.

He already has a production company that gives him creative freedom and control, so if he wants his own studio, we have no doubt he’ll find a way to make it happen.

The real question is whether he’ll go it alone, or partner up with his frequent collaborator, Michael B. Jordan.

Michael B. Jordan

The “Creed III” star/director is heading into his filmmaker era, looking to expand the “Creed” universe, create new worlds and broaden his acting career into fresh spaces.

Jordan may have the closest trajectory to Perry, as he’s the only actor here. However, his connection to two major franchises gives him a leg up at the box office.

As a bonus, we’re here for any opportunity to see him and Ryan Coogler collaborate.