Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou, celebrated for his powerful performances in films like Gladiator, Blood Diamond, and Amistad, is opening up about the challenges he continues to face as a Black actor in Hollywood. Despite a career spanning more than two decades and earning two Oscar nominations, the 60-year-old actor revealed he is underpaid and still struggling financially.
In an interview on CNN’s American Voices Changemakers, Hounsou spoke candidly about his experiences in the film industry. “I’ve been in the business for over two decades, with two Oscar nominations and numerous films, yet I’m still struggling financially. I am absolutely underpaid,” he said.
Hounsou also reflected on a particularly painful moment early in his career. He recalled being overlooked for an Oscar nomination for his breakout role as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s 1997 historical drama Amistad. Despite receiving a Golden Globe nomination for the same performance, he felt dismissed by the Academy.
“They ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I had just come off the ship and the streets,” Hounsou shared. “Even though I earned the Golden Globe nomination, they didn’t view me as an actor worthy of their respect.”
His story sheds light on the systemic biases and lack of diversity in the entertainment industry. Hounsou’s experiences highlight the ongoing struggle faced by many actors of color to receive fair pay and recognition, despite their undeniable talent and achievements.
