‘I’m Underpaid, Still Struggling to Make a Living’ – American actor Djimon Hounsou
Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has opened up about ongoing financial challenges despite his long-standing career in Hollywood, spanning over two decades.
Speaking on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, Hounsou expressed frustration over being underpaid despite starring in blockbuster films and earning two Oscar nominations.
“I’m still struggling to make a living,” the Gladiator actor revealed. “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 addressed the persistent issue of racism in Hollywood, sharing his experiences of being overlooked. “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I proved myself, they didn’t feel like I was an actor they should respect,” he said.
The actor noted that while conversations around diversity have increased, true systemic change in Hollywood remains elusive. “This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon,” he added.
Hounsou’s candid comments shed light on the ongoing disparities and challenges faced by many actors of color in the entertainment industry, even those with a celebrated body of work.
