The Color Purple’ star sheds tears, alleging Hollywood underpayment: ‘The numbers don’t add up
Taraji P. Henson Breaks Down in Tears Over Pay Inequality in Hollywood
During a heartfelt interview with Gayle King on Sirius XM Radio, acclaimed actress Taraji P. Henson couldn’t hold back her tears as she discussed the significant pay inequality she believes exists in Hollywood.
The 53-year-old star, known for her role in “The Color Purple,” expressed her frustration with the industry after being asked about rumors of her quitting. Henson revealed that she’s exhausted from working tirelessly while receiving only a fraction of what she deserves.
Henson passionately stated, “I’m tired of hearing my sisters saying the same thing over and over. I hear people say, ‘You work a lot.’ Well, I have to. The math just doesn’t add up.”
The “Empire” actress emphasized the importance of considering the support teams that entertainers have when negotiating deals. She highlighted the fact that there are significant expenses involved in their work and that their entire team deserves fair compensation.
Henson shed light on the financial realities, explaining, “Uncle Sam takes 50%, and your team takes 30% of your gross earnings. Now do the math.”
These alleged pay gaps have led Henson to contemplate a career change. Through tears, she expressed her frustration, saying, “Every time I break another glass ceiling, when it’s time to renegotiate, I’m back at the bottom. It wears on you, you know? If I can’t fight for those coming up behind me, then what am I doing?”
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Henson revealed that studios often claim they have no money when it’s time to negotiate contracts, which she finds disingenuous. She firmly stated, “Enough is enough. They play in your face, and I’m supposed to just keep going. But I won’t stand for it anymore.”
The actress has shifted her focus to non-acting endeavors, such as her haircare line, to protect her soul from the industry’s potential soul-stealing nature. She refuses to let it happen.
This isn’t the first time Henson has spoken out about being underpaid. In a 2019 interview with Variety, she revealed that she had fought for a $500,000 salary for a supporting role in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” but was only able to secure $150,000 after negotiations. She emphasized the need to fight for what she deserves.
What steps have been taken towards progress in addressing pay inequality and gender discrimination in the entertainment industry, according to Taraji P. Henson?
S rely on, including hairstylists, makeup artists, and assistants. She argued that these professionals are often underpaid and undervalued, further exacerbating the pay inequality within the industry.
Henson’s tears during the interview highlighted the emotional toll that this issue has taken on her. She shared personal anecdotes about having to fight for equal pay and fair treatment throughout her career. She spoke about being offered significantly lower salaries than her male counterparts, despite having a similar or even more prominent role in a project.
The actress acknowledged that there have been steps towards progress in recent years, thanks to the efforts of activists and organizations fighting for gender equality in Hollywood. However, she argued that more needs to be done to ensure that women, and particularly women of color, receive the same opportunities and compensation as their male counterparts.
Henson’s emotional reaction to the topic resonated with many in the industry and beyond, sparking a larger conversation about pay inequality and systemic discrimination in Hollywood. Her bravery in sharing her own experiences and speaking out against injustice serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.
In conclusion, Taraji P. Henson’s tearful interview with Gayle King shed light on the significant pay inequality that persists in Hollywood. Her heartfelt plea for change and equal opportunities for women in the industry resonated with many, sparking an important discussion about gender equality and systemic discrimination. Henson’s courage in sharing her own experiences serves as a rallying cry for change, urging the industry and society as a whole to address and rectify these deep-rooted issues.
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