Steve Mensch, the leader of Tyler Perry Studios, tragically died after his aircraft crashed in Florida.
According to AP News, the recent plane crash claimed the life of Steve Mensch, president and general manager at Tyler Perry Studios, while he piloted his small plane in Homosassa, Florida.
Steve Mensch, who helmed the Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios, was flying a Vans RV-12IS when the fatal incident occurred on Friday night. Authorities identified the crash site near Homosassa, approximately 60 miles north of Tampa. Mensch had registered the aircraft at his home address in Fayetteville, a suburb of Atlanta.
Mensch played a crucial role at Tyler Perry Studios for over eight years, contributing significantly to the studio's management and growth. The studio confirmed the loss the day after the accident.
Steve Mensch's influence extended beyond his direct responsibilities at Tyler Perry Studios. He was deeply involved in maintaining Georgia's film tax credit, which generates over a billion dollars annually and has been vital in transforming Georgia into a substantial film and television production hub in the U.S. In addition, his efforts in this area had a lasting impact on the state's industry growth.
Before this, Steve Mensch started his career with Feature Systems and later Turner Broadcasting, where he played an instrumental role in establishing the Georgia Production Partnership.
Furthermore, he played a key role in several initiatives aimed at bolstering Georgia's film and TV market, particularly in the context of international projects. These included developing a sizable studio in China and Third Rail Studios in suburban Atlanta.
In 2016, Tyler Perry personally recruited Steve Mensch to help establish and oversee the management of Tyler Perry Studios, set up on 330 acres of a former Army base in southern Atlanta. His vision and leadership have left an indelible mark on the industry.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution spoke with Ric Reitz about Mensch's considerable impact on the local industry. Reitz illustrated how Mensch's efforts before the Olympics were pivotal in forming a strategic community think tank to enhance Georgia's competitiveness in the film and TV sectors.
Tyler Perry Studios released a heartfelt statement, expressing profound grief and disbelief at the loss of such a significant figure:
Steve Mensch was an integral part of our community in Atlanta, loved by many and respected for his invaluable contributions. "We are incredibly saddened by the passing of our dear friend Steve Mensch. Steve was a cherished member of our team for more than eight years and well-beloved in the community of Atlanta. It's hard to imagine not seeing him smiling throughout the halls. We will miss him dearly. Our heart goes out to his family as we all send them our prayers," the studio stated.
Mensch's dedication to the film industry and his work in securing fiscal benefits for Georgia contributed greatly to the state's success in the sector.
Furthermore, Steve Mensch leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to influence the film industry for years to come. His wife, Danila, and their three children survive him and now face the difficult task of coping with this significant loss.
The communities he influenced, both locally and internationally, will remember his passion, vision, and indomitable spirit.
