The upcoming Tyler Perry series, “For Better or Worse,” isn’t just being added to the TBS lineup; it’s actually replacing “House of Payne.”

“It will be sad to say goodbye to ‘House of Payne,’” Tyler said in a statement. “Working on ‘House of Payne’ taught me a lot about what it takes to make a successful television series, and I’m looking forward to applying that experience to ‘For Better or Worse,’” he added.

“House” launched in 2007 and stars Lance Gross, Allen Payne, Keshia Knight-Pulliam, Cassi Davis and LaVan Davis.

There’s no word yet on whether any “House of Payne” cast members will end up on the new series, which has been described as a TV version of Tyler’s Why Did I Get Married? films.

By all indications, “House of Payne” pulled in solid numbers for TBS. The series and its sibling show, “Meet the Browns,” were both ranked in the top five primetime sitcoms among Black adults.

However, that may have had something to do with the fact that Tyler’s series were two of the few original scripted sitcoms on cable featuring an all-Black cast. That’s changed now that TV One and BET have started developing shows like “Love That Girl!” and “The Game.”

The increased competition for more African-American viewers may explain why Tyler and TBS are opting to move in a different direction.

However, if Tyler’s track record is any indication, he and TBS have little to worry about.

“Tyler Perry’s series have been tremendously successful for TBS, helping establish the network as a prime destination for African-American viewers,” said Michael Wright, the network’s executive vice president. “We’re excited for the opportunity to expand our relationship with Tyler Perry.”

-Tracy L. Scott

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Photos: 2011 NAACP Image Awards