Taraji P. Henson has never been one to hold back. Her portrayal of a struggling mother navigating betrayal and survival reminded audiences of her unique ability to channel vulnerability and fury with equal precision.
From scheming matriarchs to misunderstood powerhouses, here are the must-watch films and series where Taraji P. Henson doesn’t just act, she owns the screen.
Role: Melinda Moore-Gayle Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, BET+
In this emotional thriller (also directed by Tyler Perry), Henson plays Melinda, a woman who sacrifices everything for her ambitious husband, only to be betrayed once he succeeds.
The story is told largely through her intense voiceover narration as she unravels emotionally and mentally, blurring the line between victim and villain.
Role: Cookie Lyon Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ (Select regions)
This Fox musical drama follows a hip-hop mogul’s family as they fight for control of his company. Henson’s Cookie Lyon, recently released from prison after taking the fall for her husband, is street-smart, sharp-tongued, and always two steps ahead.
She delivers one-liners like daggers and still carries deep emotional weight, especially in scenes exploring her past sacrifices and trauma. If you loved her fire in Straw, Cookie will keep you hooked for six seasons straight.
Role: April Where to Watch: BET+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
In this Tyler Perry drama, Henson plays April, a nightclub singer with a self-destructive streak who’s forced to care for her niece and nephews after their grandmother disappears. As she confronts her past and toxic relationships, she begins to open up to love and redemption.
This role marked a turning point in Henson’s career. Her portrayal of April, a woman wounded by love and hardened by life, felt authentic and emotionally rich. It’s not as loud as Straw, but just as layered and heartfelt.
4. Hidden Figures (2016)
Role: Katherine G. Johnson Where to Watch: Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video
A critically acclaimed biographical drama, Hidden Figures tells the true story of three Black women mathematicians at NASA whose calculations were crucial to the U.S. space program.
Henson plays Katherine Johnson, a brilliant and trailblazing mathematician who fights against racism and sexism in the 1960s.
If Straw reminded you of Taraji’s emotional depth, Hidden Figures will show you her restraint and strength. It’s a masterclass in subtlety; she builds Katherine’s resilience scene by scene.
