Hollywood actor Djimon Hounsou has opened up about his ongoing financial struggles and the rampant racism he has encountered throughout his career. Despite having achieved success in his acting career for over two decades, the Benin-born actor revealed in an interview with CNN’s African Voices Changemakers that he still faces major financial challenges. . Hounsou, now 60, admits that his apparent success in Hollywood does not translate into financial stability, citing low pay as a major problem.
Known for critically acclaimed roles in films such as the Oscar-nominated Blood Diamond and In America, Hounsou has an impressive track record. However, he confessed that even after starring in numerous blockbuster films, making ends meet remains a challenge. Reflecting on the economic hardship, he said: I’ve been in the film production business for over 20 years, been nominated for an Oscar twice, and starred in many blockbuster movies, but I’m still clearly underpaid. ”
Hounsou also shed light on the systemic racism that continues to plague Hollywood. Reflecting on how he was not nominated for an Oscar for the role, despite being nominated for a Golden Globe, he blamed the scorn on prejudice rooted in his background. “I was nominated for a Golden Globe, but the Oscars ignored me because they thought I just came off the boat or off the streets. Even if I made it, they ignored me. They didn’t feel like I was an actor who deserved respect,” he explained.
Hounsou said that while diversity efforts are now prominent in entertainment discourse, real change is still a long way off. “Systemic racism isn’t going to change anytime soon,” he added, highlighting how deeply entrenched bias continues to hinder progress.
Hounsou's journey to Hollywood began with his debut in the 1990 film Without You I’m Nothing. He rose to international fame with his powerful performance in the 2006 film Blood Diamond, co-starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
