Sherri Shepherd Is a Bona Fide Actress and "Straw" Proves It

Let me say this upfront: Straw belongs to Taraji P. Henson. She carries the film with power, depth, and emotional weight that only Taraji can bring. But while everyone’s already giving Taraji her well-earned flowers, I’m here to tell you who else showed up and showed out: Sherri Shepherd.

The Tyler Perry-directed Straw follows Janiyah Wilkinson (Henson), a single mother pushed to the brink by financial hardship, personal tragedy, and desperation, leading to a tense standoff inside a bank. While Perry brings his signature drama and commentary, the film also highlights the unity of the Black community, especially among Black women, which makes Sherri Shepherd’s performance stand out even more.

Most know Sherri for her humor, talk show hosting, and daytime TV presence. But what she delivers here is something many didn’t expect,  unless you’ve been paying attention. This wasn’t Sherri the TV host. This was Sherri the actress. A bona fide actress.

Scene after scene, Shepherd matches the emotional weight Henson brings. Standing beside a powerhouse like Taraji is no easy task, but Sherri holds her ground with grace, subtlety, and control. She proves that real power isn’t always in the loudest moments, but in the quiet space where true empathy lives.

Shepherd gives her character, Nicole, a quiet strength that allows the audience to breathe during the film’s most intense moments. When she speaks, it’s deeply felt. When she listens, it’s powerfully received. It’s the mark of a true actor who understands their craft.

Here’s what I’m saying,and what the grassroots, the culture, and the streets are saying: Sherri Shepherd is second only to Taraji in this film. Period. You can debate Perry’s direction or the plot twists, but when it comes to performances, Shepherd held her own like a seasoned vet.

Nicole becomes a person who sees Janiyah’s pain without judgment, and connects with it. Shepherd doesn’t steal scenes, she anchors them. That restraint makes her presence even more powerful.

Tyler Perry made an excellent casting decision, giving Shepherd the space to showcase her full talent. This wasn’t a lightweight supporting role.  It required skill, nuance, and emotional depth. Shepherd delivered on all fronts.

In a film about struggle, desperation, and survival, Sherri Shepherd brings humanity to the forefront. She’s no longer just a TV host or comedic actress. She's proven she belongs in the conversation as a serious dramatic talent.

Sherri Shepherd is a bona fide actress — and Straw is the proof.

#sherrishephard

#tylerperry

#netflixstraw