Tyler Perry says his decision to pick Kim was important -- simply because of her following.

In true Madea fashion, Tyler Perry is taking a moment to set the record straight and clear up all the commotion surrounding his decision to cast Kim Kardashian in "The Marriage Counselor."

Over the last few weeks, Perry has received numerous emails and letters from fans protesting Kim's placement in his new movie. In an open letter to fans, Perry says his decision to pick Kim was important -- simply because of her following.

"She literally has millions of young people following her. I thought and still do think, that it would be very responsible of her to be a part of this film. To have the young people that look up to her, see her in a film that is about, what happens in life when you make the wrong choices," he writes. "Whether you’re aware of it or not, to be honest with you I wasn’t, millions of young people adore her and are following her every move. If one of those young people sees this film and finds the strength to live a better life and not go through what these characters went through in this movie, then we have all done what I feel I’m being led to do here. I hope you understand."Despite coming under heavy criticism, Perry stands by his decision -- despite criticism of Kim's recent divorce announcement after 72 days of marriage. 

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