Two-time Oscar nominee Djimon Hounsou has disclosed that, despite decades of critical acclaim and significant roles in Hollywood, he continues to face financial difficulties. In a candid interview on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, the Beninese-born actor opened up about being undervalued in the entertainment industry, even after appearing in high-profile films such as Gladiator, Amistad, Blood Diamond, and In America.
“I’m still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou admitted. “I’ve been in this business making films now for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid.”
A Career of Acclaim, Yet Financial Struggles
Hounsou’s breakout role came in 1997’s Amistad, directed by Steven Spielberg, where he portrayed Cinqué, a historical figure who led a slave ship rebellion. While the role earned him a Golden Globe nomination, he was controversially overlooked for an Academy Award nomination. According to Hounsou, this snub was rooted in xenophobia and racism.
“They ignored me for the Oscars, talking about the fact that they thought I had just come off the boat and off the streets,” he said. “Even though I successfully did that [film], they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.”
Hounsou also pointed out the slow pace of progress regarding diversity and equity in Hollywood. “This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism doesn’t change overnight.”
Persistent Financial Inequities
Despite having an illustrious filmography, including roles in Gladiator alongside Russell Crowe and Blood Diamond opposite Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Connelly, Hounsou has spoken openly about being underpaid compared to his peers. In a 2023 interview with The Guardian, he noted, “I have yet to meet the film that paid me fairly. I’ve come up in the business with some people who are absolutely well-off and have very little of my accolades. So I feel cheated, tremendously cheated, in terms of finances and in terms of the workload as well.”
Hounsou recounted experiences in Hollywood where he was marginalized due to perceptions of his origins. “I’ve gone to studios for meetings, and they’re like, ‘Wow, we felt like you just got off the boat and then went back [after Amistad]. We didn’t know you were here as a true actor.’”
Upcoming Projects
Hounsou’s resilience continues to shine as he takes on an array of upcoming projects. He will star in several thrillers, including the horror film The Monster, directed by Darren Lynn Bousman of the Saw franchise. He is also set to appear in Beneath the Storm, a shark thriller opposite Phoebe Dynevor, and The Zealot, a claustrophobic thriller co-starring Kodi Smit-McPhee.
In addition, Hounsou recently appeared in Shazam! Fury of the Gods and will feature in the highly anticipated A Quiet Place: Day One.
Systemic Issues in Hollywood
Hounsou’s story sheds light on the challenges many actors of color face in an industry where representation and equity remain ongoing battles. His candid remarks about financial inequities, racism, and the undervaluation of talent are a call for introspection in Hollywood.
For those interested in exploring more stories about cultural resilience, visit HospitalityGH, your hub for insightful narratives and updates on global entertainment and the African diaspora.
