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

by Henry Mar 18,2025

Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou, known for his roles in numerous Marvel, DC, Netflix, and other major films, 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 that he is "still struggling to make a living" and is "definitely underpaid."

This echoes sentiments he expressed in 2023 to The Guardian, where he stated feeling "cheated, tremendously cheated, in terms of finances and in terms of the workload as well," comparing his financial situation to that of other actors with fewer accolades.

Hounsou, a Black actor from Benin, also alleges that racism and xenophobia have negatively impacted his career. He recounted experiences where studio executives expressed surprise at his continued presence in Hollywood, suggesting a limited perception of his capabilities. "When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting," he stated. "But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that."

His 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 many more.