‘I’m underpaid, still struggling to make a living’ – American actor Djimon Hounsou

• Actor Djimon Hounsou stated that he has been in the filmmaking business for over two decades, yet to struggles to make a living 
• He opens up on how he was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored him for the Oscars because they thought that he had just come off the streets.

Renowned Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has opened up about his struggles with financial instability and racism in the entertainment industry.

Despite boasting an impressive two-decade-long career, complete with two Oscar nominations and a slew of blockbuster films, Hounsou confessed to being underpaid and struggling to make ends meet.

Hounsou’s made this candid admission during an appearance on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by many professionals in the entertainment industry.

“I’m still struggling to make a living. 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 said.

On racism in Hollywood, Hounsou said, “I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars because they thought that I had just come off the boat and the streets. Even though I successfully did that, they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect.

“So, this conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon.”

Famous British actor, Idris Elba had also revealed that he lost interest in playing James Bond role because of racism.

The 50-year-old actor shared his opinions on the topic while appearing as a guest on the most recent episode of the Smartless podcast, which is co-hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett.

Elba acknowledged how thrilling it was for him to hear that he might be chosen to play James Bond.