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

Renowned actor Djimon Hounsou, a prominent figure in Marvel, DC, Netflix, and numerous other film productions, recently revealed his ongoing financial struggles in Hollywood. Despite a distinguished career spanning over two decades, including two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor (In America and Blood Diamond) and starring roles in countless blockbusters, Hounsou confessed to CNN that he remains "underpaid" and "still struggling to make a living."

"I’m still struggling to make a living. 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," he stated.

This isn't a new sentiment for Hounsou. In a 2023 interview with The Guardian, he similarly expressed feelings of being "cheated" financially and burdened by an excessive workload compared to his peers with fewer accolades.

Hounsou, a Black actor from Benin, also alluded to the impact of racism and xenophobia on his career. He recounted instances where studio executives perceived him as a newcomer, overlooking his established acting credentials. "When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting," he commented, adding, "But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that."

His recent projects 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 many more.