In Hollywood, salaries can be amazing like (too) low. Actresses are often paid less than their male colleagues, as evidenced by Gal Gadot’s remuneration for her role as Wonder Woman, but they are not the only ones. A famous actor who has played in multiple blockbusters, notably at Marvel and DC, reveals his financial difficulties.
Djimon Hounsou reveals he is underpaid in Hollywood
Oscar-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou is still struggling financially even after 20+ years in Hollywood.
How is that possible yet he’s one of the most recognizable African actors? pic.twitter.com/iIW1gsxsr6
— Larry Madowo (@LarryMadowo) https://twitter.com/LarryMadowo/status/1877780313025249391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Rebel Moon, Blood Diamonds, Black Adam, Captain Marvel, Shazam!, Tarzan, Guardians of the Galaxy, Gladiator…For two decades, Djimon Hounsou has appeared in dozens of feature filmsincluding many big-budget blockbusters. However, in an interview with CNN, the 60-year-old Beninese and American actor claims to have difficulty getting by economically.
I’ve been making films for over twenty years now, I’ve been nominated twice for the Oscars, I’ve starred in numerous blockbusters, and However, I still struggle to get by financially.. I’m definitely underpaid.
Racism still persistent in Hollywood?
This is not the first time that Djimon Hounsou discusses remuneration problems in an interview. In 2023, we looked back on his entire career with our colleagues at The Guardian, and in particular on his complicated beginnings upon his arrival in Paris where he found himself homeless, before opening up about his Hollywood salaries.
I still have to demonstrate why I should be paid. They always come to me with very modest offers saying : “We only have this for this role, but we really like you and we really think you can bring a lot to the table.“(…) Viola Davis said it beautifully: she won an Oscar, an Emmy, a Tony, and she still can’t get paid. Film after film, it’s a fight. I’m still looking for the film that will pay me well.
This is not the first time that a black actor has highlighted the salary difference between him and his white colleagues, testifying to racism still in force in the world of cinema…
And to discover the shocking revelations behind the scenes of Lost regarding racism on set, it’s right here.
