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

Djimon Hounsou, a celebrated actor known for his roles in films spanning from Marvel and DC to Netflix, has openly discussed his ongoing financial struggles in Hollywood. Despite his impressive resume, which includes two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor for "In America" and "Blood Diamond," and appearances in numerous blockbuster films, Hounsou revealed to CNN that he feels "definitely underpaid" and is "still struggling to make a living."

These sentiments are not new for Hounsou, who in 2023 shared similar frustrations with The Guardian, expressing feelings of being "cheated" financially and in terms of workload compared to his peers with fewer accolades. As a black actor from Benin, Hounsou has pointed to racism and xenophobia as factors impacting his career. He recounted experiences where studios expressed surprise at his continued presence in the industry, suggesting a limited perception of his role and capabilities post his role in "Amistad."

Despite these challenges, Hounsou's recent filmography remains robust, with roles in "A Quiet Place: Day One," the two "Rebel Moon" films on Netflix, "Gran Turismo," "The King's Man," "Shazam: Fury of the Gods," "Captain Marvel," and "Fast and Furious 7," among others. His perseverance in the face of industry adversity highlights his dedication and the ongoing conversation about pay disparity and representation in Hollywood.