Djimon Hounsou, a two-time Academy Award nominee renowned for his roles in films such as Amistad, Gladiator, and Blood Diamond, has candidly discussed his ongoing financial challenges and feelings of being undercompensated in Hollywood. In a recent interview on CNN's "African Voices Changemakers," Hounsou stated, "I'm still struggling to make a living... I'm definitely underpaid."
Despite a career spanning over two decades and featuring performances in numerous blockbuster films, Hounsou, 60, expressed frustration over the industry's systemic issues, including racism and a lack of diversity. He recounted feeling overlooked by the Academy Awards for his breakout role as Cinqué in the 1997 film Amistad, despite receiving a Golden Globe nomination for the same performance. Hounsou claimed that the Oscars ignored him because they perceived him as someone who had "just come off the boat and off the streets."
Hounsou's experiences highlight broader concerns about pay inequity and recognition for actors of color in the entertainment industry. He referenced fellow actor Viola Davis, noting that despite her numerous accolades, she still faces challenges in obtaining fair compensation. Hounsou emphasized that the industry's conceptual idea of diversity has a long way to go and that systemic racism won't change anytime soon.
In addition to his acting career, Hounsou has taken steps to address these systemic issues. Inspired by his role in Amistad, he founded the Djimon Hounsou Foundation, aiming to connect people of the African diaspora to their heritage and address the legacy of slavery.
Hounsou's candid revelations shed light on the persistent challenges faced by actors of color in Hollywood, underscoring the need for continued efforts toward genuine diversity, equity, and inclusion within the industry.