Djimon Hounsou opens up about financial struggles and racism in Hollywood

Djimon Hounsou reveals ongoing financial struggles despite two decades in the film industry.

Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou, known for his powerful performances in films like Gladiator and Blood Diamond, recently shared candid thoughts about his ongoing financial struggles despite over two decades of experience in the film industry.

Speaking on African Voices Changemakers, a popular CNN program, Hounsou revealed that he is still facing significant financial challenges, which he attributes to being underpaid in Hollywood.

"I’m still struggling to make a living. I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid," Hounsou explained, expressing his frustration despite his extensive career.

In addition to his financial struggles, Hounsou opened up about his experiences with racism in Hollywood. He recounted being overlooked for an Academy Award nomination despite his Golden Globe recognition. "I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets," he said. "Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect."

He emphasized that, despite the industry’s increasing focus on diversity, true inclusivity and equality are still far from being achieved. "This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon," he stated.