Taraji P. Henson has candidly addressed the persistent inequalities facing Black women and women of color in Hollywood, encouraging those affected to advocate for themselves. The acclaimed 54-year-old actress revealed her personal struggles in the industry despite her impressive career achievements.
From Frustration to Renewal
Known for her powerful performances as Cookie Lyon in Empire (which earned her a Golden Globe in 2016) and as Queenie in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (garnering an Oscar nomination in 2009), Henson disclosed that her journey hasn’t been without significant challenges. Her frustrations with the industry—stemming from limited role opportunities and pay disparities—led her to take a month-long sabbatical in Bali, Indonesia.
“I was just frustrated and it was making me bitter, and I’m not a bitter person,” the Color Purple actress explained during her appearance at the Cannes Film Festival. “I made a promise to myself that if I ever got there then it’s time to walk away. I’m not serving myself or the audience or the characters I play. Thank god I did that. I came back refreshed and with a new perspective.”
Beyond Accolades to Impact
While acknowledging her industry recognition, Henson emphasized that her career motivation extends far beyond trophies and awards.
“Sometimes in the industry, you make it about the trophies and the awards and that’s never why I got into it,” she stated. “I came into this to change lives. The arts saved me. I was a little Black girl in the hood in DC during the crack epidemic. I’m supposed to be a statistic. I wasn’t supposed to make it out but I did.”
Shattering International Myths 
A pivotal moment in Henson’s career came during international press for Empire when she witnessed firsthand the global appeal of her work—contradicting industry narratives she had been told throughout her career.
“When I did the international press for Empire, up until then I was told Black doesn’t translate overseas,” she recalled. During a surprise appearance at a Q&A session in Paris, “Before [Lee Daniels] could finish saying my name, the entire room erupted in applause and was screaming.”
The emotional response from international fans transformed her understanding of her market value: “I ugly-faced cried. The myth was busting. You lied to me my entire career… That changed the game.”
Advocating for Equal Pay
Having previously accepted lower compensation, the Hidden Figures star has now changed her approach: “Not anymore though!”
“I urge you all to speak up for yourself,” Henson advised. “I have worked my butt off to garner the following I have. My following rides for me… I know a studio, when they call on me, they are calling on me because they know all these people are going to come and show up.”
Recognizing her audience impact has empowered her negotiations: “That’s my power. You need me because you need my following. Thank you, social media. Once I figured that out, I just started speaking up for myself.”
