Djimon Hounsou Reveals Challenges of Earning a Living in Hollywood
Despite his notable career filled with Oscar-nominated roles and appearances in popular films, Djimon Hounsou has disclosed that he faces financial difficulties.
In a recent interview with CNN, the 60-year-old “Shazam!” actor expressed his financial struggles, pointing out that even after years in the industry and being part of significant franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe, he still finds it hard to make ends meet.
“I have been part of this industry for over 20 years, and despite two Oscar nominations and numerous blockbuster roles, I’m still finding it challenging to earn a decent living,” he shared. “It’s clear that I’m undercompensated.”
When CNN reporter Larry Madowo expressed his astonishment at Hounsou’s situation, noting that he was among the first prominent Black actors in high-budget films, Hounsou responded, “This only highlights how systemic racism cannot be overlooked. You have to navigate it and do your best to survive.”
Hounsou portrayed Korath in the Marvel films, chasing Chris Pratt’s Peter Quill in “Guardians of the Galaxy” and reappearing in “Captain Marvel.” He also played a significant role as a powerful wizard in the DC “Shazam!” series.
Additionally, Hounsou has featured in the “A Quiet Place” series, including “A Quiet Place Part II” and last year’s “A Quiet Place: Day One.”
His career kicked off with a role in Steven Spielberg’s 1997 film “Amistad,” which earned him a Golden Globe nomination but not an Academy Award nomination. Hounsou expressed to CNN that he felt the Academy didn’t consider him a serious actor worthy of respect at that time.
Hounsou eventually received two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor, first for “In America” in 2004 and then for “Blood Diamond” in 2007. He was also in “Gladiator,” which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2001.
His extensive filmography includes titles such as “Stargate,” “Constantine,” “Eragon,” “How to Train Your Dragon 2,” “Furious 7,” “Aquaman,” “Charlie’s Angels,” “The King’s Man,” and both parts of Zack Snyder’s “Rebel Moon.”
