Sinbad Makes Powerful Return to Acting in Tyler Perry’s Straw After Stroke Recovery

Sinbad is back in the spotlight, and it’s nothing short of inspiring. Nearly five years after suffering a life-altering stroke, the 68-year-old comedian and actor has made his return to acting in Tyler Perry’s intense Netflix thriller Straw. It’s a huge moment for Sinbad, whose real name is David Adkins, and a deeply personal win after years of battling through recovery.

He plays Benny in the film, a character wrapped up in the emotional chaos surrounding Janiyah, played by Taraji P. Henson. Janiyah is a single mother desperately trying to care for her sick daughter while the world around her falls apart. It’s a heavy film with emotional stakes, and Sinbad’s presence brings heart and authenticity to the story.

Tyler Perry Opens the Door

Speaking at the New York City screening on June 3, Tyler Perry shared what it meant to have Sinbad in the cast. “It’s so important to me, as a man, that men want to support and take care of their families,” he 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.”

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That support wasn’t just professional. It was a vote of confidence from Perry, who has built a reputation for lifting up talent that mainstream Hollywood sometimes forgets. For Sinbad, this wasn’t just a role — it was a moment of validation after years spent healing, adapting, and slowly finding his way back.

A Look Back at Sinbad’s Stroke and Road to Recovery

Sinbad’s stroke happened in October 2020. A few weeks later, his family confirmed it was triggered by a blood clot that traveled from his heart to his brain. It was serious, and for a time, his fans didn’t know if they’d ever see him on-screen again.

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In 2022, his family gave a major update through social media, sharing just how difficult the recovery had been. But they also credited prayers and public support for helping keep Sinbad’s spirit strong. “We are eternally grateful,” they wrote. “Every outpouring of love and the memories of how he has touched all of you have not gone unheard, unseen, or unfelt.”

Sinbad didn’t make a public appearance until early 2024, when he joined his A Different World castmates via Zoom for a tour of historically Black colleges. That moment alone gave fans hope that he was slowly returning to form. He followed it up with his first Instagram post in nearly two years, thanking everyone who stood by him during the hard days.

Sinbad’s Message to Fans: “Miracles Happen”

In a video message earlier this year, Sinbad spoke from the heart. “Thank you for your prayers, support, and positive thoughts. They’ve carried me this far and will see me through to the finish line.” Then he delivered a classic Sinbad moment with a smile: “Expect to see more of me soon, and don’t freak out if you turn around and I’m standing right behind you. ‘Sinbad, I can’t believe you’re here!’ You can’t believe it? You better believe it. Miracles happen.”

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His comeback is one of those miracles.

Castmates Celebrate His Return

During the Straw premiere, veteran actor Glynn Turman, 78, took a moment to reflect on what it meant to work alongside Sinbad. “I had the opportunity to work with — well, be in the same motion picture with, Sinbad. That has been very special for me,” Turman told PEOPLE. His words carried the weight of respect, admiration, and shared experience in a tough industry.

A Role That Carries Real Weight

In Straw, Sinbad’s character Benny is caught up in the same cruel system that traps Janiyah. The story is tense, layered, and built to test its characters. For Sinbad, stepping into this film meant more than playing a role. It meant reclaiming space — not just in Hollywood, but in life.

Straw is now streaming on Netflix, and fans can witness Sinbad’s long-awaited return for themselves. It’s more than a performance. It’s a reminder of resilience, faith, and never counting anyone out.