American actor, Djimon Hounsou faces financial struggles despite his successful career
Djimon Hounsou, a prominent Beninese-American actor with two Oscar nominations, has disclosed his ongoing financial struggles despite a successful Hollywood career spanning twenty years. In a recent interview on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, he revealed, “I’m still struggling to make a living… I’m definitely underpaid”.
Hounsou further emphasized the pervasive issue of systemic racism in the industry, contending that his exclusion from an Oscar nomination stemmed from biases against him as a person of color. He expressed disappointment at the gradual progress of diversity initiatives in Hollywood, highlighting the ongoing need for change.
The Beninese-American actor, Djimon Hounsou maintained that, despite having a career spanning over two decades, he continues to face financial challenges and underpayment in Hollywood.
The celebrated star, distinguished by two Oscar nominations and a roster of blockbuster appearances, spoke out in a recent interview featured on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers.
“I’m still struggling to make a living. In a career spanning over two decades, with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid,” he said.
The actor spoke out about racism in Hollywood, sharing his own experiences of being overlooked and undervalued.
He said: “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I was new to the country and the streets. Even though I succeeded, they didn’t think I was an actor who deserved respect.”
The idea of diversity is still conceptual, and systemic racism will not change anytime soon.
Born on April 24, 1964, Hounsou started his career with music video appearances and his first film role was in ‘Without You I’m Nothing’.
He then obtained widespread recognition for his role as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s film ‘Amistad’, resulting in a Golden Globe nomination.
