Taraji P. Henson took on a challenging new project when she filmed her lead role in Tyler Perry’s latest movie, ‘Straw’, in an astonishingly short period of time. The talented actress spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about this unique experience, shedding light on the incredible dedication and hard work involved in bringing this character to life.
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Despite having a jam-packed schedule, Henson managed to juggle filming for ‘Straw’ while also working on her Peacock true-crime limited series, ‘Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist’. In a remarkable feat, she completed filming for ‘Straw’ in just four days before returning to the set of ‘Fight Night’.
As Henson shared with PEOPLE, Tyler Perry and the team behind ‘Straw’ went above and beyond to accommodate her busy schedule and ensure that they made the most of the limited time they had. Perry, who wrote, produced, and directed the film, praised the teamwork that allowed them to capture all the necessary footage within the tight timeframe.
For Henson, working with Perry again was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up, despite the challenges of fitting it into her schedule. Having previously collaborated on the film ‘Acrimony’ in 2018, she was eager to take on another complex role that would push her as an actress.
The character of Janiyah, portrayed by Henson in ‘Straw’, resonated deeply with the actress. Janiyah, a single mother facing unimaginable challenges, allowed Henson to tap into her own strengths as an actress and advocate for those whose voices often go unheard.
Henson’s dedication to her craft is evident in her approach to roles that challenge and inspire her. She explained that she is drawn to characters like Janiyah, who bring attention to important issues and shed light on the struggles faced by many. Through her portrayal, she aims to give a voice to the voiceless and offer reassurance to those who see themselves reflected in the characters she plays.
The movie ‘Straw’ is set to debut globally on Netflix on June 6, offering audiences a glimpse into the powerful and emotional journey of Janiyah and the compelling story that unfolds on screen. With a talented cast and a visionary filmmaker at the helm, ‘Straw’ promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.