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

Acclaimed actor Djimon Hounsou, a veteran of Marvel, DC, Netflix, and countless other productions, recently revealed his ongoing financial struggles in Hollywood. Despite two Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor (In America and Blood Diamond) and a prolific career in blockbuster films, Hounsou claims he is consistently underpaid.

"I'm still struggling to make a living," Hounsou told CNN. "I've been in this business making films for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I'm still struggling financially. I'm definitely underpaid."

Hounsou, a Black actor from Benin, further suggested that racism and xenophobia have negatively impacted his career trajectory. He recounted experiences where studio executives expressed surprise at his continued presence in Hollywood, implying a perception of him as a fleeting presence rather than a seasoned professional.

"When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting. But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that," he commented.

Hounsou's 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 numerous other high-profile projects.