During an interview on CNN’s ‘African Voices Changemakers’, Hounsou spoke candidly about the harsh realities of his life in Hollywood. “I’ve been in the filmmaking business for over two decades, with two Oscar nominations and many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid,” he shared.
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Hounsou also recalled a particularly painful experience early in his career. He believes he was snubbed for an Oscar nomination for his breakout role as Cinqué in Steven Spielberg’s 1997 historical drama ‘Amistad’, despite earning a Golden Globe nomination for the same performance. “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I successfully did that, they didn’t feel like I was an actor worthy of their respect,” he said.
His story highlights the systemic racism and lack of diversity that persist in the entertainment industry. Despite his undeniable talent and numerous accomplishments, Hounsou’s experiences reflect the struggles faced by many actors from diverse backgrounds in securing fair compensation and recognition.
Watch the interview below..
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