Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that he continues to face financial struggles despite a successful career spanning over two decades.
During an appearance on CNN’s popular magazine program, African Voices Changemakers, the ‘Gladiator’ actor expressed his frustration about being underpaid.
“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 shared.
Addressing the issue of racism in Hollywood, Hounsou said, “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. Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.”
He added, “So, this conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon.”
