Actress and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson plays the role of Janiyah Wiltkinson, a single mother, in the Tyler Perry Netflix film “Straw.” Her character embodies someone who has reached their breaking point, highlighting what it means to face the last straw. Henson discussed this theme during her press tour, notably during her appearance on “The View.”
“I love roles where I give a voice to the voiceless because people who feel unseen need to know that they’re not alone and that people do see you. Also, stories that will force the audience to lead with grace and understanding because you never really judge a book by its cover. That’s why I always air on the side of kindness because you never know what battles someone is fighting. That’s Janiyah. She’s a single mother, and she can’t get ahead to save her life. And I’ve been in that situation before the difference between me is I had an incredible support group, family and a great sister circle that would relieve some of my pressure but Janiyah did not and there are so many Janiyah’s in the world.”
The film also features Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor, Rockmond Dunbar, Glynn Turman, Ashley Versher, and Mike Merrill. Seeing comedian and actor Sinbad appearing after a stroke in November 2020 is heartwarming.
What are your thoughts on the movie and its impact on raising awareness about mental health?
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