On October 12, 2007, Why Did I Get Married? premiered in theaters, captivating audiences with its raw and honest portrayal of marriage and relationships. Written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry, who also starred in the film, it resonated deeply, topping the box office during its opening weekend. The movie explores the lives of four Black couples, friends since college, who gather for an annual retreat meant to salvage their struggling marriages. The stellar cast brought these relatable characters and their complex issues to life, earning Janet Jackson an NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress. As the film celebrates its 15th anniversary, let’s revisit the talented Actors In Why Did I Get Married and see what they’ve been up to since.
01 Terry
In Why Did I Get Married?, Tyler Perry portrays Terry, a dedicated pediatrician and husband to Dianne. Terry represents the challenges of balancing professional life with marital responsibilities.
02 Tyler Perry: From Terry to Media Mogul
Tyler Perry’s career has exploded since Why Did I Get Married?. Already a prominent figure, he has solidified his status as a Hollywood powerhouse. He has consistently written, produced, and directed numerous successful projects across film, television, and theater, exceeding 50 titles. His media empire continues to grow, and in 2020, Time Magazine recognized his influence by including him in their list of the 100 most influential people. Perry’s continued success makes him a standout among the actors in Why Did I Get Married.
03 Dianne
Dianne, played by Sharon Leal, is a high-powered attorney and Terry’s wife. Her demanding career puts a strain on their marriage, a central conflict in Why Did I Get Married?.
04 Sharon Leal: From Law to Liars
Sharon Leal has maintained a steady presence in film and television since her portrayal of Dianne. She appeared in holiday favorites like This Christmas and alongside Samuel L. Jackson in Soul Men. Leal currently stars in the HBO Max series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, showcasing her range and enduring appeal as one of the memorable actors in Why Did I Get Married.
05 Gavin
Malik Yoba played Gavin, an architect married to Dr. Patricia Agnew. Gavin’s character grapples with supporting his wife through immense personal grief in Why Did I Get Married?.
06 Malik Yoba: A Versatile Career
Malik Yoba, already known for Cool Runnings and New York Undercover, has continued to build an impressive acting resume. He has appeared in acclaimed television series such as CSI: Miami, Empire, Designated Survivor, and Gotham, demonstrating his versatility across genres. In 2016, he also ventured into voice acting for The Walking Dead: Michonne video game, proving his continued relevance as one of the actors in Why Did I Get Married.
07 Dr. Patricia Agnew
Janet Jackson portrayed Dr. Patricia Agnew, a psychologist and Gavin’s wife. Patricia’s storyline in Why Did I Get Married? is marked by profound sadness and the struggle to overcome personal tragedy that impacts her marriage.
08 Janet Jackson: Icon and Actress
Janet Jackson, a global music icon even before 2007, further solidified her acting credentials with Why Did I Get Married?. Since then, she has continued to balance her music and acting career, appearing in For Colored Girls. Jackson has embarked on five world tours, released two albums, and embraced motherhood, welcoming a son in 2017. Her role as Dr. Patricia Agnew remains a significant part of her diverse career as one of the prominent actors in Why Did I Get Married.
09 Marcus
Michael Jai White played Marcus, a former professional football player and Angela’s husband. Marcus and Angela’s relationship in Why Did I Get Married? provides comedic relief while also showcasing real marital challenges.
10 Michael Jai White: Action Star and Actor
Michael Jai White, known for his martial arts skills and acting prowess, has starred in major productions since Why Did I Get Married?. He has appeared in The Dark Knight, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, The Boondocks, Insecure, and Black-ish, showcasing his range from action to comedy. His diverse roles demonstrate his continued success as one of the actors in Why Did I Get Married.
11 Angela
Tasha Smith brought Angela to life, a boisterous hair salon owner and Marcus’s wife. Angela’s comedic and sometimes over-the-top reactions in Why Did I Get Married? made her a fan favorite.
12 Tasha Smith: From Comedy to Empowerment
Tasha Smith has become a prolific actress and director since Why Did I Get Married?. She has starred 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. Her multifaceted career highlights her as one of the most dynamic actors in Why Did I Get Married.
13 Mike
Richard T. Jones played Mike, an entrepreneur and Sheila’s husband. Mike’s infidelity and the subsequent fallout are central to Sheila’s emotional journey in Why Did I Get Married?.
14 Richard T. Jones: A Career in Demand
Richard T. Jones, who gained recognition in The Wood, has enjoyed a successful and consistent acting career. He has had recurring roles in popular series like American Horror Story: Hotel, Narcos, and Criminal Minds. Currently, he stars as Wade Grey in ABC’s The Rookie, demonstrating his sustained presence as one of the actors in Why Did I Get Married.
15 Sheila
Jill Scott portrayed Sheila, a kind and gentle housewife married to Mike. Sheila’s vulnerability and emotional growth are a poignant part of Why Did I Get Married?.
16 Jill Scott: Singer, Songwriter, and Star
Jill Scott, a Grammy Award-winning singer and songwriter, expanded her acting career after Why Did I Get Married?. She has appeared in films like Baggage Claim and Get On Up, and took on a leading role in BET’s First Wives Club series for two seasons. Her success in both music and acting solidifies her place as one of the celebrated actors in Why Did I Get Married.
17 Troy Jackson
Lamman Rucker played Troy Jackson, a local sheriff who becomes Sheila’s love interest later in the movie. Troy represents a new chapter for Sheila after her divorce in Why Did I Get Married?.
18 Lamman Rucker: A Steady Star
Lamman Rucker’s role in Why Did I Get Married? was a breakout moment, leading to further success in Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns and OWN’s Greenleaf, where he played Jacob Greenleaf. Rucker has become a familiar face on television, proving his lasting appeal as one of the actors in Why Did I Get Married.
Why Did I Get Married? remains a significant film, not only for its box office success but also for its honest exploration of marital issues and its ensemble cast. The actors in Why Did I Get Married have all continued to thrive in their careers, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
