Dreams are coming true for one talented young star from Annapolis. Dylan Gilmer—better known across the country as Young Dylan—recently signed on to star in an upcoming Tyler Perry sitcom on Nickelodeon.
In recognition of his big break, the City of Annapolis presented the 10-year-old Germantown Elementary student with a series of citations and a key to the city.
As Gilmer’s manager, Epic Clifton, notes, receiving the key to the city is a big deal, especially for someone so young. “It means the city’s behind him all the way,” Clifton says. “And he’s just getting started.”
Gilmer entered the public eye when his online video performance of Bryson Tiller’s “Don’t” went viral. He quickly built a following on Instagram and YouTube, and he caught the attention of Ellen DeGeneres, who has had him on her talk show as a recurring guest. He’s also performed at the NBA All-Star Weekend and on “America’s Got Talent.”
As for the prospect of working with Perry? Gilmer is thrilled. “It’s just crazy ‘cause it’s a dream come true working with Tyler Perry—he’s one of the biggest directors out there and he’s the best,” Gilmer says. “I’m just so happy to work with him, and we’re going to make it big.”
—Dylan Roche
Photos by Dylan Roche
As part of an October 28 meeting by the City Council of Annapolis, Mayor Gavin Buckley and Alderwoman Sheila Finlayson presented Dylan Gilmer, better known as Young Dylan, citations and a key to the city in recognition of his rising stardom. Gilmer’s family, friends, classmates and other fans gathered to cheer for him and celebrate his upcoming role on a new Nickelodeon show by Tyler Perry.