On October 12, 2007, Why Did I Get Married? graced theaters, captivating audiences with its raw and honest portrayal of marriage’s complexities in the modern world. Written, directed, produced, and led by the multi-talented Tyler Perry, the film resonated deeply, securing the top spot at the box office during its opening weekend. The movie follows four college-friend couples on a mountain retreat designed to confront their marital challenges and rediscover the foundations of their unions.
The film boasted a stellar ensemble cast, featuring prominent actors such as Janet Jackson, Jill Scott, Malik Yoba, Sharon Leal, Tasha Smith, Michael Jai White, Richard T. Jones, and Lamman Rucker, among others. Why Did I Get Married? garnered four NAACP Image Award nominations, with Janet Jackson winning Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture. Its success led to a sequel, Why Did I Get Married Too?, in 2010.
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, let’s explore what the talented actors of Why Did I Get Married? have been up to since the film’s release.
The Actors of “Why Did I Get Married?” – Then and Now
Terry
In Why Did I Get Married?, Terry is portrayed as a dedicated pediatrician and the supportive husband of Dianne, navigating the challenges of balancing career and marriage.
Tyler Perry
Before Why Did I Get Married?, Tyler Perry was already a celebrated playwright and actor, known for his iconic Madea character. However, Why Did I Get Married? solidified his status as a Hollywood powerhouse. Since its release, Perry has expanded his empire, creating over 50 film, television, and stage projects, often writing, producing, and directing them himself. His influence was recognized in 2020 when Time magazine named him one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Perry continues to be a prolific creator, consistently delivering content that resonates with a wide audience.
Dianne
Dianne, played by Sharon Leal, is depicted as a high-powered attorney, the ambitious wife of Terry, grappling with the pressures of her demanding career on her marriage.
Sharon Leal
Prior to Why Did I Get Married?, Sharon Leal had already made her mark in films like Dreamgirls. Following her portrayal of Dianne, Leal continued to build a successful acting career, appearing in popular movies such as This Christmas and Soul Men. She has also transitioned to television, currently starring in the HBO Max series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, showcasing her versatility and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Gavin
Gavin, portrayed by Malik Yoba, is an architect and the husband of Dr. Patricia Agnew. His character deals with the emotional aftermath of a tragic loss that strains his marriage.
Malik Yoba
Malik Yoba was a familiar face before Why Did I Get Married?, recognized for his roles in Cool Runnings and New York Undercover. Post-Gavin, Yoba has maintained a consistent presence in television, securing roles in critically acclaimed series like CSI: Miami, Empire, Designated Survivor, and Gotham. He also ventured into voice acting in the video game The Walking Dead: Michonne in 2016, demonstrating his diverse talents across different media.
Dr. Patricia Agnew
Dr. Patricia Agnew, played by Janet Jackson, is a psychologist and Gavin’s wife. Her character is deeply affected by the loss of her child, creating significant challenges in her relationship and personal life.
Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson was already a global music icon before taking on the role of Dr. Patricia Agnew. After Why Did I Get Married?, Jackson continued to expand her illustrious career. She starred in Tyler Perry’s For Colored Girls, embarked on five world tours, released two albums, and welcomed her son in 2017. Jackson’s enduring career spans music, film, and dance, solidifying her legendary status.
Marcus
Marcus, played by Michael Jai White, is a former professional football player and the husband of Angela. His character portrays the struggles of adapting to life after sports and navigating a passionate but volatile marriage.
Michael Jai White
Michael Jai White was already known for his martial arts skills and acting roles in action films before Why Did I Get Married?. Since then, White has broadened his acting portfolio, appearing in blockbusters like The Dark Knight and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. He has also lent his voice to The Boondocks and appeared in popular series such as Insecure and Black-ish, showcasing his range across comedy, drama, and action genres.
Angela
Angela, played by Tasha Smith, is a spirited hair salon owner and Marcus’s wife. Her character is known for her comedic relief and strong personality, often clashing with her husband.
Tasha Smith
Tasha Smith’s portrayal of Angela was a breakout role that amplified her career. Following Why Did I Get Married?, Smith became a sought-after actress, starring in films like The Longshots, Couples Retreat, Jumping The Broom, and Dolemite Is My Name. Beyond acting, Smith founded TSAW (Tasha Smith Actors Workshop), dedicated to empowering actors, particularly within the Black community, highlighting her commitment to nurturing talent.
Mike
Mike, played by Richard T. Jones, is an entrepreneur and Sheila’s husband. His infidelity and subsequent divorce are central to Sheila’s storyline and her journey toward independence.
Richard T. Jones
Richard T. Jones gained prominence in 1999 with The Wood before appearing in Why Did I Get Married?. Since playing Mike, Jones has enjoyed consistent work in television, with recurring roles in American Horror Story: Hotel, Narcos, and Criminal Minds. He currently stars as Wade Grey in ABC’s The Rookie, maintaining a strong presence in primetime television.
Sheila
Sheila, played by Jill Scott, is introduced as a meek and kindhearted housewife, married to Mike. Her character arc involves finding strength and independence after her husband’s betrayal, eventually finding love again.
Jill Scott
Jill Scott was a Grammy Award-winning singer before her role as Sheila in Why Did I Get Married?. After the film, Scott seamlessly transitioned further into acting, appearing in Baggage Claim and Get On Up. She also took on a starring role in BET’s First Wives Club for two seasons, balancing her successful music and acting careers.
Troy Jackson
Troy Jackson, played by Lamman Rucker, is a local sheriff who becomes Sheila’s love interest. His character represents a fresh start for Sheila, leading to their eventual marriage.
Lamman Rucker
Lamman Rucker’s role as Troy Jackson in Why Did I Get Married? was a significant step in his acting career. Following this, Rucker gained further recognition as Will Brown in Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns and as Jacob Greenleaf in the popular OWN series Greenleaf. He has become a consistent presence in television drama, known for his compelling performances.
Why Did I Get Married? remains a significant film, not only for its box office success but also for its honest depiction of marital challenges and its ensemble cast of talented actors who have continued to thrive in their careers. The movie’s 15th anniversary is a testament to its lasting impact and the enduring appeal of its stars.
