On October 12, 2007, audiences were introduced to Why Did I Get Married?, a compelling film that delved into the complexities of modern marriage and relationships. Written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry, who also starred in the movie, this story resonated deeply with viewers, exploring the challenges faced by four Black couples during their annual marriage retreat. The film’s honest portrayal of marital struggles and the search for deeper connection propelled it to the top of the box office during its opening weekend, proving its cultural impact and relevance.
Why Did I Get Married? wasn’t just a box office success; it also boasted a stellar ensemble cast. Alongside Tyler Perry, the movie featured 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. The film garnered recognition from the NAACP Image Awards, securing a nomination and a win for Janet Jackson as Outstanding Supporting Actress. Its popularity led to a sequel, Why Did I Get Married Too?, released in 2010, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Fifteen years have passed since the release of this impactful film. Let’s take a look at the Cast Of Why Did I Get Married? and see what they have been up to since their roles in this landmark movie.
Terry (Tyler Perry)
In Why Did I Get Married?, Tyler Perry played Terry, a dedicated pediatrician and the husband of Dianne. Terry represents a partner grappling with the challenges of balancing professional life with marital expectations, a common theme in modern relationships.
Tyler Perry was already a well-established figure in entertainment before Why Did I Get Married?, but the film further cemented his status as a multi-hyphenate force in Hollywood. Since 2007, Perry’s career has exploded. He has written, produced, and directed over 50 projects spanning film, television, and stage. His media empire, Tyler Perry Studios, stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision. Perry’s influence was recognized in 2020 when he was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people, highlighting his significant contributions to entertainment and culture.
Dianne (Sharon Leal)
Sharon Leal portrayed Dianne in Why Did I Get Married?, a high-powered attorney and Terry’s wife. Dianne embodies the pressures faced by professional women striving to maintain both successful careers and fulfilling marriages. Her character’s journey in the film explores the sacrifices and compromises often required in contemporary partnerships.
Following her role as Dianne, Sharon Leal continued to build a robust acting career. She appeared in popular holiday films like This Christmas and shared the screen with Samuel L. Jackson in Soul Men. Leal has also made significant strides in television, currently starring in the HBO Max series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin. Her consistent work across film and television underscores her versatility and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Gavin (Malik Yoba)
Malik Yoba played Gavin, an architect married to Dr. Patricia Agnew (Janet Jackson). Gavin’s character in Why Did I Get Married? is portrayed as supportive yet struggling with communication issues within his marriage, a common relational challenge explored in the film.
Already recognized for his roles in Cool Runnings and New York Undercover, Malik Yoba has maintained a strong presence in both film and television since Why Did I Get Married?. He has appeared in critically acclaimed television series such as CSI: Miami, Empire, Designated Survivor, and Gotham, showcasing his range and adaptability as an actor. In a unique venture, Yoba also lent his voice to the video game The Walking Dead: Michonne in 2016, demonstrating his diverse talents across different media platforms.
Dr. Patricia Agnew (Janet Jackson)
Janet Jackson took on the role of Dr. Patricia Agnew, a psychologist and Gavin’s wife, in Why Did I Get Married?. Patricia’s character carries the emotional weight of past tragedy, having lost a child, which significantly impacts her marriage. Her storyline explores themes of grief, healing, and the complex interplay between personal trauma and marital dynamics.
Janet Jackson, an iconic singer, songwriter, dancer, and actress, was already a global superstar well before 2007. Since her appearance in Why Did I Get Married?, Jackson has continued to expand her artistic endeavors. She starred in Tyler Perry’s For Colored Girls, further demonstrating her acting abilities. Musically, she has embarked on five world tours and released two albums, maintaining her status as a leading figure in the music industry. Adding another dimension to her life, Jackson welcomed a son in 2017, balancing her thriving career with motherhood.
Marcus (Michael Jai White)
Michael Jai White played Marcus, a former professional football player and husband to Angela (Tasha Smith), in Why Did I Get Married?. Marcus is depicted as navigating the transition from a high-profile athletic career to married life, facing challenges related to ego, communication, and adapting to a different pace of life.
Beyond acting, Michael Jai White is also a highly skilled martial artist. Following Why Did I Get Married?, White has broadened his acting portfolio with roles in blockbuster films like The Dark Knight and Tyler Perry’s House of Payne. He has also lent his voice to The Boondocks and appeared in popular television series such as Insecure and Black-ish, showcasing his versatility across genres and formats.
Angela (Tasha Smith)
Tasha Smith brought the hilarious and outspoken Angela to life in Why Did I Get Married?. Angela, a hair salon owner and Marcus’s wife, provides much of the film’s comedic relief while also tackling relatable marital issues like jealousy, insecurity, and the need for attention in a relationship.
Since Why Did I Get Married?, Tasha Smith has become a prominent figure in both comedy and drama. She has starred in films like The Longshots, Couples Retreat, Jumping The Broom, and Dolemite is My Name, demonstrating her range and comedic timing. Beyond acting, Smith founded TSAW (Tasha Smith Actors Workshop), an actor’s workshop focused on empowering and inspiring performers, particularly within the Black community, reflecting her commitment to nurturing talent and giving back to her community.
Mike (Richard T. Jones)
Richard T. Jones played Mike, an entrepreneur and Sheila’s (Jill Scott) husband, in Why Did I Get Married?. Mike’s character represents the complexities of infidelity and its devastating impact on marriage. His storyline in the film revolves around betrayal, forgiveness, and the difficult path to reconciliation or separation.
Richard T. Jones, who gained initial recognition in The Wood in 1999, has continued a successful acting career since Why Did I Get Married?. He has secured recurring roles in popular television series such as American Horror Story: Hotel, Narcos, and Criminal Minds, demonstrating his versatility in dramatic roles. Currently, audiences can see Jones as Wade Grey in ABC’s The Rookie, further cementing his consistent presence on television.
Sheila (Jill Scott)
Jill Scott portrayed Sheila, a kindhearted but initially meek housewife married to Mike, in Why Did I Get Married?. Sheila’s character arc is one of transformation and empowerment. Initially presented as vulnerable, Sheila evolves throughout the film, eventually finding her strength and independence as she confronts her husband’s infidelity and reclaims her life.
Grammy Award-winning singer Jill Scott has seamlessly balanced her music career with acting. Following Why Did I Get Married?, Scott continued her phenomenal music career and expanded her acting roles, appearing in films like Baggage Claim and Get On Up. She also took on the starring role in BET’s First Wives Club for two seasons, showcasing her leading lady capabilities and further establishing her as a multifaceted entertainer.
Troy Jackson (Lamman Rucker)
Lamman Rucker played Troy Jackson, a local sheriff who becomes Sheila’s love interest in Why Did I Get Married?. Troy represents a new chapter for Sheila, offering her kindness, respect, and the possibility of love after heartbreak. Their developing relationship provides a hopeful counterpoint to the marital struggles of the other couples.
Why Did I Get Married? served as a breakout role for Lamman Rucker, leading to further success in Tyler Perry’s projects and beyond. He became well-known for his role as Will Brown in Tyler Perry’s Meet the Browns and garnered significant acclaim for his portrayal of Jacob Greenleaf in OWN’s popular series Greenleaf. Rucker’s continued success in television highlights his solid acting skills and appeal to audiences.
Why Did I Get Married? remains a significant film in exploring the intricacies of marriage and relationships within the context of contemporary life. The talented cast of Why Did I Get Married? brought these relatable characters to life, and their careers have continued to flourish in the years since, leaving a lasting impact on entertainment.
