Oscar-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou, known for his roles in Blood Diamond and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, has revealed that he is still “struggling” financially despite his celebrated career.
The 60-year-old Beninese-American actor, who has received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor—first for In America (2002) and later for Blood Diamond alongside Leonardo DiCaprio—opened up about his financial hardships in an interview with CNN’s African Voices Changemakers.
“I’m still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou admitted. “After over two decades in the industry, with two Oscar nominations and appearances in many blockbuster films, I’m still underpaid.”
Reflecting on his career, Hounsou recalled being overlooked by the Academy for his performance in Steven Spielberg’s Amistad, where he portrayed Cinqué, a leader of a slave revolt. He suggested that xenophobia and racism played a role. “I was nominated for a Golden Globe, but the Oscars ignored me, claiming I had just come off the boat or the streets. They didn’t see me as an actor worthy of respect,” he said, emphasizing that systemic racism and the push for true diversity in Hollywood still have a long way to go.
Hounsou, who has appeared in recent blockbusters such as A Quiet Place: Day One, Gran Turismo, and Shazam! Fury of the Gods, has previously spoken out about his financial struggles. In a 2023 interview with The Guardian, he expressed frustration over being underpaid. “I’m yet to meet the film that paid me fairly,” he said. “I’ve worked alongside people who are financially secure despite having fewer accolades. I feel tremendously cheated, both financially and in terms of workload.”
He also shared the challenges of navigating stereotypes in Hollywood, recounting studio executives who underestimated his talent after Amistad. “Some people’s vision of you is very limiting,” he said. “But it’s up to me to change that.”
