Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that despite his decades-long career in Hollywood, he is still struggling financially and feels undervalued in the film industry.
Speaking on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, the two-time Oscar nominee expressed frustration over being underpaid for his work in major productions.
“I’m still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou said. “I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m definitely underpaid.”
Hounsou, widely recognized for his role in Gladiator, also addressed the systemic racism he has faced in Hollywood. He recounted being overlooked for an Oscar despite receiving a Golden Globe nomination.
“They ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I successfully delivered, they didn’t see me as an actor worthy of respect,” he said.
The actor emphasized that Hollywood’s efforts at diversity still have a long way to go. “Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon,” he added, calling for greater inclusion and equity in the entertainment industry.