In a candid and emotional interview with Gayle King on SiriusXM, award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson shared her frustrations about the challenges she faces in the entertainment industry, citing unequal pay and the constant struggle for recognition. The 53-year-old actress, known for her remarkable performances in films like “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “Hidden Figures,” broke down in tears as she expressed her weariness with the disparities in compensation.
Henson, who earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and won a Screen Actors Guild Award for her portrayal of Katherine Goble Johnson in “Hidden Figures,” revealed her exhaustion with the industry’s financial inequalities. Despite her accolades and numerous nominations, Henson emphasized that the reality of pay disparities often goes unnoticed.
The actress touched on the misconception surrounding reported earnings in Hollywood, stating that the public often misunderstands the financial implications. She highlighted the significant deductions, including taxes, and stressed that the reported figures rarely reflect the actual amount reaching an actor’s bank account.
Henson pointed out the added pressure of having a team behind every successful artist, emphasizing that their contributions also demand fair compensation. The actress addressed the common narrative of individuals claiming she works extensively, emphasizing that the demands of the industry come with substantial financial responsibilities. She highlighted the complexity of Hollywood finances, where even after overcoming significant hurdles and breaking glass ceilings, renegotiations often place her at a disadvantage.
Expressing her frustration, Henson stated, “I’m only human, and it seems every time I do something and I break another glass ceiling, when it’s time to renegotiate, I’m at the bottom again like I never did what I just did, and I’m just tired. I’m tired. I’m tired. It wears on you, you know? Because what does that mean?”
The heartfelt interview shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by prominent figures in the entertainment industry, sparking conversations about the need for systemic changes to ensure equal pay and recognition for all actors.
Written by
Derek Chan – Editor
