‘The Math Ain’t Mathing’: Taraji P. Henson talks about Hollywood pay disparity
Taraji P. Henson opened up about the ongoing issue of pay disparity in Hollywood in a recent interview on Gayle King's Sirius XM radio show. The award-winning actress, known for her roles in movies like «Hidden Figures» and «Empire,» broke down in tears as she discussed the challenges faced by Black actors in the industry.
«I’m just tired of working so hard [and] being gracious at what I do, being paid a fraction of the cost,» Henson shared during the interview. She emphasized the repetition of hearing her fellow actresses voice similar concerns, highlighting the persistent issue of unequal compensation. Henson's emotional outpouring revealed the toll that systemic disparities have taken on her and others in the entertainment industry.
Addressing the financial complexities actors face, Henson pointed out the significant deductions from their earnings. She highlighted the impact of taxes and the percentages taken by agents, managers, lawyers, and other team members, leaving actors with a fraction of their reported income. The actress underlined the challenges of navigating negotiations and the recurrent struggle to secure fair compensation, even after breaking new ground in her career.
«I’m only human, and it seems every time I do something — I break another glass ceiling — when it’s time to re-negotiate I’m at the bottom again like I never did what I just did, and I’m just tired,» expressed Henson. The actress questioned the message sent by this cycle of disparity, expressing weariness with the constant battle for equitable pay.
Her co-stars, Danielle Brooks and Blitz Bazawule, joined the conversation, offering their perspectives on the challenges
