Over the past few days, the latest Netflix movie by Tyler Perry, titled “Straw,” has been generating a lot of buzz since it debuted on their streaming service on June 6, 2025.
The movie, depicting a destitute single mom’s emotional breakdown following the death of her child, has resonated strongly with viewers, receiving acclaim for its accurate portrayal of the hardships faced by individuals stuck in similar circumstances.
The movie demanded robust actors for viewers to empathize with the experiences of its characters, primarily focusing on Taraji P. Henson’s portrayal of Janiyah Wilkinson, a hardworking single mother, who serves as our main point of view.
Throughout its duration, viewers witness how every encounter takes a toll on her, as she encounters apathy or aggression from the authorities, her workplace, and her property manager.
We sense the pressure she’s facing, which makes us understand her extreme actions. Henson delivers an impressive portrayal that brings genuine depth and sensitivity to the role.
Tyler Perry, both writer and director of the movie, commended Henson for the depth she brought to her role, particularly noting her exceptional ability to fulfill the character as scripted.
In an interview with Tudum, he stated that Taraji embodies both the spirit and essence of this movie. Her performance portrays the deep emotional struggles of a woman facing her toughest life moment. Taraji skillfully guides the audience through each emotion experienced by her character, which is why she’s such an exceptional actor. When she appears on screen, you simply can’t look away.
Whenever I begin to compose, a distinct face appears before me, and in this instance, it was Taraji’s visage that became vividly apparent. As soon as the character Janiyah uttered her first words on the page, I found myself thinking, “This is Taraji. I truly hope she agrees to take on the role.
In the movie, Henson takes the lead role, but she’s not alone; several other gifted actors, some of whom you might recognize from their past work, also star. Each one delivers a compelling performance that makes the scenario these characters are in feel authentic.
You can read on for everything you need to know about the full cast of the film.
Staw cast: Who plays who in the Netflix film?
The complete list of actors is given below; continue scrolling to learn more about the principal characters.
For a comprehensive look at the cast, check out the list below; additional details on the key performers can be found further down.
- Taraji P Henson as Janiyah Wilkinson
- Sherri Shepherd as Nicole Parker
- Teyana Taylor as Detective Kay Raymond
- Glynn Turman as Richard
- Sinbad as Benny
- Rockmond Dunbar as Chief Wilson
- Ashley Versher as Tessa George
- Mike Merrill as Det Grimes
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Taraji P Henson plays Janiyah Wilkinson
Who is Janiyah Wilkinson? She’s a hardworking single mother who’s having an exceptionally tough day. With the added pressure of caring for her unwell child, juggling two jobs to keep afloat financially, and barely managing to pay the rent, we follow Janiyah throughout this challenging day. Unfortunately, all her problems converge, leaving her with what appears to be no viable solutions.
Have I encountered Taraji P Henson elsewhere aside from Streetwise, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Best of Enemies, The Color Purple, Person of Interest, and Empire?
Sherri Shepherd plays Nicole Parker
Who is Nicole Parker? She serves as the manager of Benevolent Pain and Trust’s branch. Dissatisfied with her past experiences at other banks, she chose this role to assist members of her own community. Despite finding herself in a hostage situation when Janiyah robbed the bank, she develops empathy towards her.
Where else have I seen Sherri Shepherd? Sherri Shepherd is an actress and comedian who first came to the attention of Tyler Perry after her role in the Oscar-winning film Precious. Since then she has appeared in numerous sitcoms, such as The Jamie Foxx Show, Less Than Perfect, Trial & Error and Mr Iglesias, as well as her own chat show, Sherri.
Teyana Taylor plays Detective Kay Raymond
Detective Raymond is the police officer handling the investigation into the murder of Janiyah’s employer. Despite the apparent evidence suggesting a straightforward case, Detective Raymond senses that there might be more to it than meets the eye. As a single parent who was raised by a single mother herself, she empathizes with Janiyah’s predicament.
Have I encountered Teyana Taylor anywhere else apart from her music videos or films such as Stomp the Yard: Homecoming, Cruel Summer, The After Party, White Men Can’t Jump, The Book of Clarence, and A Thousand and One?
Glynn Turman plays Richard
In simpler terms, Richard is the one who employs Janiyah at the supermarket, but he himself finds it challenging to manage the store. Despite this, when a minor issue arises involving Janiyah, he appears unsympathetic and reprimands her severely before letting her go. This event sets off a chain of events that unfold subsequently.
Have I encountered Glynn Turman anywhere else besides the movies, TV series, and Broadway productions he’s been involved in?
Sinbad plays Benny
Benny is a senior neighbor of Janiyah’s, whom she extends extra assistance to even amidst her personal hardships. Later on, he acknowledges her strong character and lends his support in the subsequent initiative she launches.
Have you come across Sinbad (also known as David Adkins) in any other TV shows or movies, apart from A Different World, Crazy as Hell, and The Sinbad Show?
Rockmond Dunbar plays Chief Wilson
Who does the role of the head of the police force investigating the case, Chief Wilson, happen to be? Initially skeptical about Janiyah, he eventually admires Raymond’s insights and resists the intrusion of the FBI.
Have I not encountered Rockmond Dunbar before, particularly in television shows such as Earth 2, Soul Food, and Prison Break?
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2025-06-10 19:04