Prominent actor Djimon Hounsou sheds light on the challenges faced by people of color in Hollywood. Despite his long and successful career, the actor reveals that he is still struggling to earn what he deserves in the film industry.
Born in Benin, Djimon Hounsou has made a name for himself in Hollywood with iconic roles in movies like Blood Diamond and Gladiator.
However, in a recent interview on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, the 60-year-old actor confessed that he continues to face difficulties, especially when it comes to fair pay.
“I am still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou admitted. “I have been in the filmmaking business for over two decades, with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I am still struggling financially. I am definitely underpaid.”
Reflecting on his early career, Djimon Hounsou recalled his breakthrough role in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad, which earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
Despite his talent and success, Hounsou believes that he has been overlooked by the Academy Awards due to stereotypes and bias.
“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 revealed.
“Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.”
This is not the first time that Djimon Hounsou has spoken out about the wage disparities in Hollywood. In a previous interview with The Guardian, he expressed his frustration at being undervalued for his work.
“I still have to prove why I need to get paid,” Hounsou said. “They always come at me with a complete low ball: ‘We only have this much for the role, but we love you so much and we really think you can bring so much.'”
