Hounsou: Hollywood Struggle Despite Oscar Nods

Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou, known for his roles in major films across Marvel, DC, Netflix, and beyond, recently revealed his ongoing financial struggles in Hollywood. Despite two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor (for In America and Blood Diamond) and a prolific career spanning over two decades in blockbuster films, Hounsou told CNN he is significantly underpaid. "I’m still struggling to make a living," he stated. "I’ve been in this business making films now for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I'm definitely underpaid."

These comments reiterate sentiments Hounsou expressed in 2023 to The Guardian, where he felt "cheated…in terms of finances and in terms of the workload as well," comparing his financial situation to that of more financially successful peers with fewer accolades.

Hounsou, a Black actor from Benin, also alluded to the impact of racism and xenophobia on his career. He recounted instances where studio meetings left him feeling misunderstood and pigeonholed, stating, "I’ve gone to studios for meetings and they’re like, ‘Wow, we felt like you just got off the boat and then went back [after Amistad]. We didn’t know you were here as a true actor.’" He added, "When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting. But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that."

Hounsou's recent projects include A Quiet Place: Day One, the Rebel Moon films (Netflix), Gran Turismo, The King's Man, Shazam: Fury of the Gods, Captain Marvel, Fast and Furious 7, and numerous other films.