For over 20 years, Djimon Hounsou has graced the silver screen with impressive roles in major films, earning two Oscar nominations along the way.
However, the 60-year-old actor has revealed that, despite his remarkable career, he is still facing significant financial challenges in Hollywood.
Financial Struggles and Underpayment
In a revealing interview with CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, Hounsou spoke candidly about the difficulties he faces when it comes to compensation in the entertainment industry.
Despite his extensive experience, he said, “I’m still struggling to make a living. I’m definitely underpaid.”
He acknowledged the disparities in pay and how, even after starring in high-profile movies, he finds it challenging to make ends meet.
His frustration is evident, as he points out the industry’s failure to properly compensate experienced actors, even those who have had major successes like him.
Hounsou Reflects on Feeling Overlooked in Hollywood
Hounsou also reflected on his breakout role as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad (1997), where he earned a Golden Globe nomination.
Despite this recognition, he felt snubbed by the Oscars.
Hounsou believes this was due to stereotypes surrounding his background, with the Academy not taking his performance seriously.
“I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets,” he explained.
He feels that his accomplishments were overshadowed by these assumptions, despite his outstanding performance.
Addressing Diversity and Systemic Racism in Hollywood
The actor also addressed the slow progress of diversity and the ongoing issue of systemic racism within the entertainment industry.
“This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go.
Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon,” Hounsou remarked.
His words underscore the deep-rooted challenges faced by actors of color, both in terms of opportunities and pay.
Hollywood Pay Disparities Continue
Hounsou’s frustrations with Hollywood’s pay disparities are not new.
In a previous interview in 2023, he shared that he had “yet to meet the film that paid me fairly.”
He went on to describe how film executives often undervalue his worth, offering low salaries with the excuse that they love him and believe in his talent.
He’s not alone in his struggle, as many Black actors face similar challenges, with even award-winning stars like Viola Davis experiencing the same hurdles.
Hounsou referenced Davis’ struggles with pay, highlighting that despite her numerous accolades, including an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony, she still faces issues with fair compensation in the industry.
Djimon Hounsou’s Efforts to Make a Difference
Beyond his acting career, Hounsou is using his platform to address deeper issues through the Djimon Hounsou Foundation.
The organization’s mission is to bridge the gap between the African diaspora and the continent, while also working to heal the lingering effects of slavery.
Hounsou shared that his research for a film project opened his eyes to the cultural disconnection many Afro-descendants experience, as they often don’t know their roots or history.
Hounsou’s Call for Industry Change
Djimon Hounsou’s story is a powerful reminder of the challenges actors of color face, even when they’ve achieved significant recognition.
His experience highlights the importance of continued efforts to create real diversity and equity in Hollywood, where actors from all backgrounds are paid fairly for their work.
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