Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that despite a Hollywood career spanning over two decades, he continues to face financial challenges and systemic inequities. Speaking on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, Hounsou expressed frustration over being underpaid despite his remarkable achievements, including two Oscar nominations and roles in blockbuster films like Blood Diamond and In America.
“I’m still struggling to make a living,” he said. “I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades, with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m definitely underpaid.”
Hounsou also opened up about his experiences with racism in Hollywood, recalling being overlooked for an Oscar nomination despite earning a Golden Globe nod for the same role. “They thought I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I proved myself, they didn’t feel I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect,” he explained.
The actor criticized the slow pace of diversity initiatives in the industry, stating, “This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon.”
Born on April 24, 1964, Hounsou began his career in music videos before gaining recognition as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad. Despite his critical successes, his story sheds light on the persistent financial and racial inequities in the entertainment industry.
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