Award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson is once again captivating audiences worldwide, this time with her raw and heartbreaking performance in Straw, the latest film from Tyler Perry Studios, now trending at #1 on Netflix.
Henson took to social media to thank her loyal fanbase, expressing deep gratitude for their unwavering support throughout her career. “I’m sooooo grateful!!! God is so good,” she wrote, revealing an astonishing behind-the-scenes fact she filmed her emotionally demanding role in just four days while simultaneously working on another film, Fight Night.
“I worked Thursday to Sunday on Straw and by Monday, I was back on the Fight Night set,” she shared. “My friend @tylerperry continues to challenge me. He trusts my process and pushes me—and I’m always better for it.”
Henson recalled a similar challenge while filming Acrimony during her Empire days, highlighting her ability to deliver under pressure. “If anyone can do this, it’s you,” Perry told her then and clearly, his faith in her hasn’t wavered.
The emotional weight of Straw rests heavily on Henson’s shoulders, and she delivers a powerhouse performance as Janiyah Wiltkinson, a single mother navigating a cascade of personal crises. From losing her job and home to the eventual removal of her daughter by CPS, Janiyah’s descent reaches a harrowing climax after a failed robbery attempt leads to her boss’s death.
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But the biggest twist? Everything the audience watches unfold is a psychotic hallucination, triggered by grief because her daughter Aria had actually passed away the night before. This heartbreaking reveal elevates the film from tragedy to psychological thriller.
Tyler Perry, deeply moved by the response, said, “All I can say is I’m humbled. This brings me to my knees in gratitude. I thank God for you all.”
The film is earning widespread praise for its unflinching portrayal of mental health struggles, societal neglect, and the silent suffering of single mothers. It highlights the emotional toll of financial instability and systemic failure, all grounded in a deeply human story.
Taraji closed her message with heartfelt thanks to her co-stars Sherri Shepherd and Teyana Taylor, writing, “Sisters forever. Just WOW!”
