Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that, despite over 20 years in the film industry and multiple accolades, he is still facing financial challenges and feels underpaid.
Speaking on CNN’s *African Voices Changemakers*, the *Gladiator* star, who has earned two Oscar nominations and appeared in numerous blockbuster films, expressed frustration over his earnings. “I’m still struggling to make a living. I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades… and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid,” he stated.
Hounsou also shed light on the persistent issue of racism in Hollywood, recounting moments of being overlooked due to his background. “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I successfully did that, they didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect,” he lamented.
Addressing Hollywood’s approach to diversity, the actor said, “This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon.”
Hounsou’s candid remarks highlight ongoing challenges faced by actors of African descent in an industry still grappling with inclusivity and equity.
