Have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood? For actor Cory Hardrick, it seems the bright lights have led him down an unexpected path, especially when it comes to his stance on Tyler Perry.

Once a vocal critic of Hollywood’s darker side, Hardrick’s recent remarks reveal a surprising shift in his perspective. The actor, known for his candid criticism of the industry’s moral compromises, now seems to be singing a different tune, particularly after starring in Perry’s film Divorce in the Black.

In an exclusive interview with TMZ, Hardrick heaped praise on Perry, despite the film receiving a rare 0% on Rotten Tomatoes. “Big shout out to Mr. Perry,” Hardrick declared. “He takes care of his actors.” This marks a stark contrast to his earlier critiques of Hollywood, where he claimed that 80% of actors had to compromise their morals for roles—a stance he proudly resisted.

So, why the sudden shift? Has Hardrick finally given in to the very pressures he once denounced?

Hardrick’s praise for Perry seems to underscore a potential new allegiance, especially given his past comments. Previously, Hardrick had spoken out about the industry’s dark demands, maintaining that he refused to play the game, even if it meant missing out on opportunities. Fast forward to today, and he’s now featured prominently in a Tyler Perry film, which raises questions about his current stance and potential compromises.

While Hardrick remains upbeat about the film’s reception, emphasizing the importance of reaching audiences despite critical reviews, his defense of Perry contrasts sharply with the views of other celebrities. For instance, comedian Cat Williams has been outspoken about what he perceives as Perry’s preference for low-budget actors willing to do anything for a role, suggesting that Perry’s productions often underpay or under-recognize talented actors.

Williams has also been vocal about the broader issue of underpayment in Hollywood, particularly affecting black actresses like Taraji P. Henson. Henson, known for her roles in Empire and Hidden Figures, has publicly expressed frustration over the systemic undervaluation of black talent, revealing that despite her high-profile roles, she faces significant challenges in securing fair compensation.

Henson’s struggles are mirrored by those of Mo’Nique, who faced a similar predicament after her Oscar win for Precious. Mo’Nique claimed she was blackballed for not promoting the film during awards season, a situation she attributes to industry gatekeepers including Perry and Oprah Winfrey.

The connection between Hardrick’s newfound defense of Perry and his personal life is also worth noting. His recent separation from actress Tia Mowry, after 14 years of marriage, has been a subject of public interest. Mowry has embraced self-care and positivity post-divorce, while Hardrick has remained relatively reserved about the details. Rumors about Hardrick’s personal life and potential compromises within the industry add another layer to the unfolding story.

As Hardrick’s career continues to evolve, his transition from critic to defender of Tyler Perry remains a topic of intrigue. Whether this change is a result of personal compromise or a strategic career move, it raises important questions about the nature of success and the pressures of Hollywood.

For now, Hardrick’s defense of Perry and his current role in the industry continue to spark conversation, as he navigates the complexities of fame, morality, and personal integrity.