Tyler Perry stressed the importance of persistence during an inspirational speech at the 2020 E! People’s Choice Awards

He said: "Why am I talking about digging for water? In this world we’re all digging wells, in our lives, digging wells in relationships, put time and effort and energy and sometimes doesn’t give us what we need.

"Time and effort and energy in dreams and business and doesn’t give us what we were after. But if you just keep digging, just hear me now, keep digging, you may be four inches away from every gift and blessing you ever wanted in your life."

Tyler is now among the best-paid and most influential people in the entertainment business, having battled homelessness earlier in his life.

And the billionaire filmmaker subsequently explained how his story related to the challenges he's faced in his life.

He shared: "Had I given up - had I given up when I was homeless, sleeping in my car, hungry, had I given up on people you see on the screen right now wouldn’t be part of my dream. People tied into your dreams and destiny, and you’re worthy of getting to your goal. Keep digging, don’t stop.

"Let me tell you something, listen to me, when you get there, to that water and see it coming and know you have what you need, this is what I want you to always remember, make sure that everybody you run into meets you at your worth."