Sinbad plays Benny in Tyler Perry’s 2025 film Straw, marking his return to the screen nearly five years after an ischemic stroke in October 2020, according to TheGrio. Netflix identifies Benny as a neighborhood resident who witnesses the generosity of Janiyah, the film’s central character.
What role does Sinbad play in Straw?
Sinbad, whose name is David Adkins, plays Benny. Netflix’s cast guide describes Benny as a neighborhood resident who witnesses Janiyah’s generosity. Janiyah is a single mother whose already difficult day escalates as she tries to care for her ill daughter.
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Why is the role being described as a return?
TheGrio reported on June 5, 2025, that Straw marked Sinbad’s return to the screen nearly five years after his October 2020 ischemic stroke. The article said his family later shared that a blood clot had traveled from his heart to his brain. That timing is the basis for the “five years after stroke” framing; it refers to the film’s 2025 release, not to a five-year interval measured from the present.
TheGrio also noted that Sinbad made a virtual appearance at an A Different World HBCU tour event in 2024. That was a public appearance, distinct from an acting role or return to the screen.
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What did Tyler Perry say about Sinbad’s performance?
In remarks to Entertainment Tonight reported by TheGrio, Tyler Perry said: “I know it’s been really difficult for him, so to give him this opportunity made me feel amazing. I’m really excited for him. And he delivered.” Perry also said in those reported comments: “It’s so important to me, as a man, that men want to support and take care of their families.”
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can you watch Straw?
Netflix lists Straw as a 2025 film available to stream on its service. Its film guide gives the runtime as 1 hour 48 minutes and the rating as TV-MA. Streaming availability can change.
TheGrio’s June 5, 2025 report provides the stroke timeline and Perry’s comments; Netflix’s guide supplies the film’s cast, premise, and viewing details.
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