Tyler Perry Continues to Champion Black Women in Hollywood with New Netflix Film 'Straw'

By Tania Patton // Films // EEW Magazine Online

Tyler Perry’s ‘Straw’ to feature Sherri Shepherd, Taraji Henson, Teyana Taylor and more (EEW Magazine Online)

Tyler Perry, a stalwart advocate for Black women in the film industry, has announced the cast for his upcoming Netflix movie, Straw, according to Hollywood Reporter. The film will feature Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor, Glynn Turman, Sinbad, Rockmond Dunbar, and Mike Merrill.

Straw centers on a dedicated single mother who finds herself grappling with uncontrollable circumstances. According to the producers, her desperate struggle leads her into unforeseen and precarious situations, thrusting her into a world that appears indifferent to her plight.

Perry, who is set to write and direct the film, continues his collaboration with Netflix through his multi-year first-look deal. The movie will be filmed in Atlanta, further extending Perry's prolific partnership with the streaming giant. His previous Netflix projects include Mea Culpa with Kelly Rowland, A Jazzman’s Blues, A Madea Homecoming, and the thriller, A Fall from Grace.

The production of Straw is overseen by Perry, Angi Bones, and Tony Strickland. Perry's alliance with Netflix also encompasses television series and faith-based films. His forthcoming Netflix ventures include The Six Triple Eight, a World War II period drama about the only all-Black, all-female battalion stationed overseas. Kerry Washington and Oprah Winfrey are set to star in this anticipated project.

Additionally, Perry is developing a drama titled "Beauty in Black," a 16-episode hour-long series that he will write, direct, and produce.

Teyana Taylor is represented by WME, Taylormade Management Group, and The Lede Company. Glynn Turman is represented by Innovative Artists and The Rosenzweig Group.

By consistently creating roles for Black women and highlighting their stories, Perry is narrowing the representation and diversity gap in the entertainment industry.