Sinbad’s Drastic Transformation In New Photos Has Fans Saying He Looks ‘Unrecognizable’ as He Returns to Acting Five Years After Stroke

Sinbad is starring in his first film since suffering a stroke five years ago. 

Thanks to Tyler Perry, the 68-year-old is back on screen in Perry’s new thriller “Straw.” The Netflix film, which also stars Taraji P. Henson, Sherri Shepherd, and Teyana Taylor, tells the story of a struggling mother who is willing to go to great lengths to support her sick daughter.

Sinbad, who can be seen in the trailer plays the character of Benny, a neighbor of Henson’s lead character. 

At the 0:57 mark of the trailer, viewers get their first look at the comedian’s character, sitting in a wheelchair outside with a piercing glare. For now the details surrounding Sinbad’s character remain unclear, but according to Perry himself, “He delivered.”

Perry talked to “Entertainment Tonight” about why he felt it was important to include Sinbad. 

“It’s so important to me as a man that men want to support and take care of their families, and I know it’s been really difficult for him, so giving him this opportunity made me feel amazing,” Perry said. “So I’m really excited for him.” 

Fans left comments about the actor in the comments section of the trailer’s YouTube clip. One person said, “I hope that was Sinbad I saw in the clip he really deserves a lot

Another wrote, “I hope Sinbad is doing ok. I heard he had a stroke.”

Tyler Perry shares why it was important for him to cast Sinbad in his first post-stroke movie role at the premiere of his film, ‘Straw,’ streaming June 6 on Netflix. https://t.co/GQRn80AKNo

— Entertainment Tonight (@etnow) June 4, 2025

But the comedian’s determination and work have helped him beat those odds. 

Even before taking on Perry’s project, Sinbad had begun to work again. Last May, he performed stand-up comedy for the first time since the stroke during his tribute for the “Netflix Is a Joke” festival. At the event, a woman helped Sinbad as he used a cane for assistance while walking to the stage. 

He has also made a cameo in the sequel to “Good Burger” starring Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell. Sinbad was the Mr. Wheat character in the original. However, in the second movie, he only did a voiceover, so he was not seen on screen like he is in Perry’s film.

”Straw” premieres on Netflix on June 6.