Oscar-nominated actor Djimon Hounsou has revealed that he is struggling financially despite the blockbusters he has starred in throughout his decades-long career in the entertainment industry.
"I've been in this business and making films now over two decades, and still, with two Oscar nominations, many big blockbuster films, and yet I'm still struggling financially to make a living," the "Shazam!" star, who has appeared in a string of major Hollywood franchises such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe, told CNN. "I'm definitely underpaid."
He alluded to "systematic racism" being the root of his struggles. Hounsou made the remark after CNN correspondent Larry Madowo said this is "mind-boggling" to hear because Hounsou was "one of the first big Black actors I saw in big-budget films."
"Well, that's a sign for you that systemic racism is not something you can deal with lightly. You have to cope with it and survive the best way you can," he said.
Hounsou took on memorable roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Korath in "Guardians of the Galaxy," a role he reprised in "Captain Marvel," USA Today reported. In the DC Universe, he portrayed a key wizard in the "Shazam!" films.
Hounsou also appeared in the "Quiet Place" series, featuring in "A Quiet Place Part II" and the recent "A Quiet Place: Day One." His early breakthrough came with Steven Spielberg's 1997 film "Amistad," which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. However, speaking to CNN, he reflected on the lack of recognition, saying, "At the time, the Academy didn't think I was an actor for whom we should pay any respect to."
Hounsou went on to receive two nominations for an Academy Award for best supporting actor — first in 2004 for "In America" and again in 2007 for "Blood Diamond." He also featured in the Oscar-winning film "Gladiator," which took home the best picture award in 2001.
Additional film credits include "Stargate," "Constantine," "Eragon," "How to Train Your Dragon 2," "Furious 7," "Aquaman," "Charlie's Angels," "The King's Man," and Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon" series.