Marvel and DC Actor Djimon Hounsou Says He Is 'Struggling To Make A Living' in Hollywood Despite 2 Oscar Nods

Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou, known for his roles in major films from Marvel, DC, Netflix, and beyond, recently revealed his ongoing financial struggles in Hollywood. Despite two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor (for In America and Blood Diamond) and a prolific career spanning over two decades in blockbuster films, Hounsou told CNN he is significantly underpaid. "I’m still struggling to make a living," he stated. "I’ve been in this business making films now for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I'm definitely underpaid."

This echoes sentiments Hounsou expressed in 2023 to The Guardian, where he felt "cheated…in terms of finances and in terms of the workload as well," comparing his financial situation to more financially successful colleagues with fewer accolades. He further alleged that racism and xenophobia have negatively impacted his career opportunities. Hounsou recounted instances where studio meetings left him feeling his contributions were underestimated, citing comments such as, “‘Wow, we felt like you just got off the boat and then went back [after Amistad]. We didn’t know you were here as a true actor.’” He concluded, "When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting. But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that."

Hounsou's recent credits include A Quiet Place: Day One, the Rebel Moon films (Netflix), Gran Turismo, The King's Man, Shazam: Fury of the Gods, Captain Marvel, Fast and Furious 7, and numerous other notable films.