Nollywood Star Ini Edo Pens Heartfelt Tribute to Taraji P. Henson After Powerful “Straw” Performance

Nollywood’s beloved screen goddess Ini Edo has taken to Facebook with a moving tribute to Hollywood powerhouse Taraji P. Henson, following her intense performance in Tyler Perry’s latest psychological crime drama, Straw, now streaming on Netflix.

In a heartfelt open letter shared with her fans, Ini Edo did not hold back her admiration, calling Henson “a phenomenal actress” and crediting her performance with reigniting a fire in her own artistic journey.

“Dear Ms. @tarajiphenson,” Ini began, “From the first time I saw you in Hustle & Flow, to every single role you have played… to now Straw… oh my goodness.”

Edo went on to describe how deeply she was moved by Henson’s latest portrayal, noting, “I felt every pain, every tear, every line… The most believable performance I have ever seen on screen.”

"Straw" Delivers Raw Emotion and Suspense

Released on June 6, 2025, Straw is a gritty psychological crime drama written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry. The film follows the harrowing journey of a single mother—played by Henson—who finds herself entangled in a series of tragic and mysterious events that lead her to the center of a criminal investigation.

Alongside Henson, the film features a stellar cast, including Sherri Shepherd, Teyana Taylor, Sinbad, Rockmond Dunbar, Ashley Versher, Mike Merrill, and Glynn Turman.

A Transcontinental Moment of Sisterhood

Edo’s impassioned post marks a beautiful moment of cross-cultural admiration between two film industries—Hollywood and Nollywood. The post has since gone viral, with fans and colleagues alike applauding Ini Edo for giving flowers to a fellow actress in such a raw and heartfelt way.

“Your craft is a gift—real, deep, raw, and rough… My all-time favourite actress,” Edo declared. “Thank you once again for igniting that fire in me… Please take your flowers ?.”

From Nigeria to the World

As two of the world’s most powerful Black-led film industries continue to rise and intersect, moments like this underscore the global impact of Black storytelling—and the emotional resonance it continues to have across continents