Tyler Perry’s latest suspense drama Straw is making waves on Netflix after its release on June 6, 2025. This emotional thriller follows a desperate single mother navigating a harrowing day full of life-altering challenges, layered with drama, emotion, and powerful performances.
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Straw Movie Overview: A Mother’s Breaking Point
At the heart of Straw is Janiyah, portrayed by the award-winning Taraji P. Henson. As a single mother struggling to care for her ailing daughter, Aria, Janiyah’s world spirals when a series of devastating events hit her all in one day. With financial pressures mounting and no one to turn to, Janiyah’s resilience is tested in ways she never imagined.
The film captures themes of motherhood, sacrifice, injustice, and survival with raw intensity, making it one of Tyler Perry’s most emotionally gripping stories yet.
Meet the Cast of Straw (2025)
Taraji P. Henson as Janiyah
Taraji P. Henson delivers a powerful lead performance as Janiyah. Known for her roles in The Color Purple, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and Empire, Henson adds emotional depth to this mother-daughter story. Her portrayal anchors the film and shines a spotlight on the strength of maternal love in desperate times.
Sherri Shepherd as Nicole Parker
Playing Janiyah’s only support system, Nicole Parker, Sherri Shepherd brings warmth and empathy to the role. A bank teller by profession, Nicole’s timely help offers a glimmer of hope amid Janiyah’s turbulent day. Shepherd’s acting credits include 30 Rock, Precious, and The View, where she showcased her comedic and dramatic range.
Teyana Taylor as Detective Raymond
Teyana Taylor steps into a serious role as Detective Raymond, a character who tries to understand Janiyah’s emotional spiral. Taylor, known for A Thousand and One, Coming 2 America, and her chart-topping music career, gives a grounded performance that connects deeply with viewers.
Rockmond Dunbar as Chief Wilson
Chief Wilson, played by Rockmond Dunbar, serves as one of Janiyah’s main obstacles. Judgmental and lacking empathy, his character adds tension to an already intense narrative. Dunbar is best known for Prison Break, Sons of Anarchy, and Tyler Perry’s The Family That Preys.
Glynn Turman as Richard
Veteran actor Glynn Turman portrays Richard, Janiyah’s boss, who shows little regard for her personal struggles. With a career spanning decades, Turman’s past roles in A Raisin in the Sun, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, and In Treatment solidify his ability to portray complex characters.
Sinbad as Benny
Sinbad takes on the role of Benny, Janiyah’s kind-hearted, wheelchair-bound neighbor. Despite her struggles, Janiyah helps Benny with the little she has, showcasing her compassion. Known for Good Burger, The Sinbad Show, and several hit comedy specials, Sinbad’s appearance adds a subtle but impactful layer to the film.
Supporting Cast of Straw on Netflix
The film also features a talented supporting lineup that deepens the drama:
- Ashley Versher as Tessa George
- Mike Merrill as Detective Grimes
- Shalet Monique as Rayah Dunnam
- Diva Tyler as Isabella
- Fracaswell Hyman as Marvin
- Doris Woodruff as Dorothy
- Gabby Jackson as Aria
Why Straw Is a Must-Watch on Netflix
Tyler Perry combines powerful storytelling, high-stakes emotional drama, and a stellar cast to bring Straw to life. Whether you’re a fan of suspenseful narratives or character-driven dramas, Straw delivers a compelling watch that lingers long after the credits roll.
If you’re searching for a Netflix thriller with heart, intensity, and timely themes, add Straw to your watchlist today.
