Not long ago, Our America executive producer and host Lisa Ling told us OWN was the best place she had ever worked. Thanks to a monumental new deal announced today, things are only going to get better.

In a hint of what is to come in the next few years for a fully Oprah-driven OWN, the network has inked an exclusive agreement with Tyler Perry. A pair of shows from the ridiculously prolific Atlanta mogul will debut in 2013, with Perry executive producing, writing and directing across the board:

“I have been looking forward to the day when we would be in the position to enter the world of scripted television. That day has come,” said Winfrey. “We are all energized by the opportunity to collaborate with Tyler… He has an incredible ability to illuminate life stories and characters in his unique voice and inspires and encourages people all over the world.”

It’s full circle for Perry. In 1992, he was inspired by a some advice from Winfrey to write the musical I Know I’ve Been Changed.