American actor Tyler Perry has apologized for missing President William Ruto’s visit to his studio on Tuesday, May 21. Ruto had included a stop at Tyler Perry Studios in his itinerary during his three-day state visit to the United States, but Perry was unable to attend.
Addressing the concerns raised about his absence, Tyler expressed his regret for not being present on the day President Ruto visited.
“Unfortunately, my schedule was booked and that I could not move things around in time to be there to greet president Ruto of Kenya as he and his family and delegation toured Tyler Perry studios,” he said.
In his statement, the Madea actor thanked his fellow actor Steve Harvey and TV host for stepping in on his behalf.
![President William Ruto (center) and Comedian Eddie Butita (left) share a light moment with American TV star Steve Harvey during their tour of the Tyler Perry Studios in Atlanta, Georgia on May 21, 2024.](https://thekenyatimes.com/storage/2024/05/butita.png)
“The good news is that means I will have to make my way to Kenya very soon! I am honored, humbled and thankful that you stopped by president. Thank you @iamsteveharveyfor stepping in. What a blessing,” Tyler said.
President Ruto was accompanied to the Tyler Perry studios by his wife, First Lady Rachel Ruto, U.S. ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman and comedian Eddie Butita, among other government officials.
Ruto stated that his visit aimed to inspire greater investment in the creative sector of the economy.
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He also highlighted the significant impact that collaborations with players in the film industry could have on monetizing the talents of young creatives.
President Ruto’s U.S Tour
During his state visit, President Ruto toured various locations in Atlanta, Georgia, where he visited historical sites, met with celebrities, and engaged with other dignitaries.
He visited the Library of Congress where he spoke on the US- Kenya Dialogue on Conservation and Africa’s Future.
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The head of state also visited the Martin Luther King junior National Historical Park where he got to pay his respect and lay a wreath at the grave of Martin Luther King Junior.
Additionally, he met celebrated NBA star legend Shaquille O’Neal during his visit to the historic park and Steve Harvey at the Tyler Perry studios.
On his last day in the States, William was received at the White House by the president of the United States president Joe Biden.
![From left: Comedian Eddie Butita, President William Ruto, Steve Harvey, First Lady Rachel Ruto, and US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman.](https://thekenyatimes.com/storage/2024/05/butita-750x536.jpg)