Djimon Hounsou, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in Blood Diamond and Gladiator, has opened up about the financial challenges he continues to face despite decades of work in Hollywood. In a candid interview on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, Hounsou shared that, even with two Oscar nominations and starring in major blockbuster films, he is still struggling to make a living.
Hounsou’s Struggles in Hollywood
While Hollywood is often associated with fame, fortune, and luxury, Hounsou’s story highlights the stark contrast for actors of color. Despite a career spanning over 20 years, Hounsou feels he has been underpaid throughout much of his career. “I’m still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou revealed. “I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid.”
This revelation challenges the common perception that Hollywood’s stars live a life of excess, pointing out the pay disparity that many actors of color, including Hounsou, face behind the scenes.
Lack of Recognition at the Oscars
Hounsou also shared his frustrations about the lack of recognition from the Academy, particularly for his standout performance in Amistad (1997). Though he received a Golden Globe nomination for his role as Cinqué, the Academy overlooked him, a snub he believes was rooted in bias. “They thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets,” Hounsou explained. “Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.”
Pay Disparities in Hollywood
Hounsou has long been outspoken about the pay disparity in Hollywood, and in a March 2023 interview with The Guardian, he revealed that he had yet to encounter a film that paid him fairly. He recalled how producers frequently offered him low salaries, even for major roles. “I still have to prove why I need to get paid,” he said. “They always come at me with a complete low ball: ‘We only have this much for the role, but we love you so much and we really think you can bring so much.'”
Hounsou also highlighted the struggles of fellow Black actors, pointing to Viola Davis, who despite winning multiple prestigious awards including an Oscar, Emmy, and Tony, still faces pay disparities in Hollywood.
Hounsou’s Message on Identity and Culture
During his CNN interview, Hounsou also discussed his deeper understanding of the disconnect between Afro-descendants and their cultural roots. “When you don’t know where you came from, you don’t know who you are,” he said, reflecting on the importance of connecting with one’s heritage.
Djimon Hounsou’s Fight for Fairness in Hollywood
Djimon Hounsou’s story is a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges many actors of color face in Hollywood. Despite decades of success and critical acclaim, Hounsou is still fighting for fair pay and recognition. His words serve as a call to action for the film industry to address these inequalities and offer more respect and fair compensation to actors of all backgrounds.
