Taraji P Henson Networth
Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated American actress and singer whose career has been marked by remarkable talent, versatility, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From her early beginnings in Washington, D.C., to becoming a household name in Hollywood, Henson’s journey is one of resilience and success. This article looks into Taraji P. Henson’s net worth, salary, early life, career highlights, personal life, and real estate investments, offering a comprehensive look at the life of this influential figure.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson has an estimated net worth of $12 million. This figure reflects her extensive and successful career in both film and television, showcasing her impressive range as an actress. Henson’s financial success is a testament to her hard work and dedication, which have earned her significant accolades and a strong presence in the entertainment industry.
Salaries
Taraji P. Henson’s salary history provides insight into her financial journey through Hollywood. Her earnings from various projects highlight the evolution of her career and the challenges she has faced in negotiating fair compensation.
- “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (2008): For her role in this critically acclaimed film, Henson was initially offered $100,000. She successfully negotiated her salary to $150,000, although after taxes and agent fees, she netted only $40,000. This experience underscored the often-hidden realities of Hollywood salaries and the significant portion that is deducted for taxes and representation.
- “The Family That Preys” (2008): Taraji received $500,000 for her role in this film, a notable increase from her previous project. This salary reflects her growing stature in the industry and her ability to command higher pay for her work.
- “Empire” (2015-2020): Taraji earned $175,000 per episode for her role as Cookie Lyon in the hit Fox drama series. Over the show’s 102-episode run, this amounts to a gross income of $17.85 million. After deductions, Henson would have netted approximately $4.65 million from the series.
Taraji P. Henson has been outspoken about salary disparities in Hollywood, using her platform to address the financial challenges faced by actors, particularly women and people of color. Her advocacy highlights the systemic issues within the industry and the need for equitable compensation for all.
Early Life
Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Growing up in a close-knit family with two siblings, Henson developed a deep bond with her grandmother, who played a significant role in her upbringing. The name Taraji means “hope” in Swahili, while Penda means “love,” reflecting the values instilled in her from a young age.
Henson graduated from high school in 1988 and initially pursued a degree in electrical engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. However, her passion for acting led her to transfer to Howard University, where she studied theater. Henson took on various jobs to finance her education, including working at the Pentagon and on a cruise ship. Her determination and resourcefulness paved the way for her future success in the entertainment industry.
Career
Taraji P. Henson’s career is a testament to her exceptional talent and versatility. From her early film roles to her standout performances on television, Henson has built a diverse and impressive body of work.
Early Film Career
Henson’s breakthrough came with a role in the 2001 film Baby Boy, which marked her entry into the mainstream film industry. This performance set the stage for her future success, and she continued to build her career with roles in various films.
In 2005, Henson gained widespread recognition for her role in Hustle & Flow, a film that won multiple awards and showcased her ability to portray complex characters. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and further established her reputation as a talented actress.
Major Breakthroughs
Henson’s role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008) earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The film, which starred Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett, was a significant milestone in Henson’s career, highlighting her ability to hold her own among Hollywood’s elite.
In 2016, Henson starred in Hidden Figures, portraying mathematician Katherine Johnson. The film, which celebrated the contributions of African American women to NASA’s space program, was both a critical and commercial success. Henson’s performance was widely praised, and the film’s success further cemented her status as a leading actress in Hollywood.
Television Career
Taraji P. Henson’s television career is equally impressive, with notable roles in several popular series. From 2011 to 2013, she co-starred in the CBS drama series Person of Interest, which showcased her ability to adapt to different genres and formats.
Henson’s most iconic television role came in 2015 with the launch of Empire. As Cookie Lyon, Henson delivered a performance that garnered widespread acclaim, earning her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama. The role also led to Primetime Emmy nominations in 2015 and 2016. Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon became a defining moment in her career, solidifying her place as one of television’s most talented actresses.
In addition to Empire, Henson received Emmy nominations for her roles in the Lifetime movie Taken from Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story (2011) and for a guest appearance on the ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary (2023). These nominations reflect her continued excellence and versatility across different types of performances.
Notable Films and Productions
Beyond her television and film work, Henson has produced and hosted various holiday specials for Fox. Her film credits include Proud Mary (2018), Tyler Perry’s Acrimony (2018), Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), and What Men Want (2019). In The Best of Enemies (2019), Henson portrayed civil rights activist Ann Atwater, demonstrating her ability to tackle challenging and transformative roles.
Personal Life
Both triumphs and challenges have marked Taraji P. Henson’s personal life. She has one son, Marcell, born in 1994. Marcell’s father, Henson’s high school sweetheart, was tragically murdered in 2003. Henson has been open about the difficulties of raising her son as a single mother while navigating her career.
In 2014, Marcell faced legal trouble when police officers found marijuana and Ritalin without a prescription in his car. Initially, Henson alleged racial profiling but later apologized for her statements after further investigation.
Taraji P. Henson made headlines in 2017 when she announced her switch to a vegan diet to reduce her risk of stomach cancer. Her commitment to health and wellness reflects her proactive approach to personal care. Henson also posed for PETA in 2011 and 2013, advocating for animal rights and showcasing her support for causes beyond the entertainment industry.
Real Estate Investments
Taraji P. Henson’s real estate portfolio includes properties in both Chicago and Los Angeles. In May 2015, she purchased a condo in Chicago for $1.5 million, which she sold in 2018 for a similar amount. She also owns a different unit in the same building, acquired for $1.9 million in 2017.
In Los Angeles, Henson’s real estate investments are notable. She bought a property in Glendale in 2002 for $431,000. In 2016, she acquired a private mansion in the hills above Hollywood for $6.45 million. These investments reflect Henson’s success and her ability to secure valuable properties in desirable locations.
Taraji P. Henson’s career and personal life are a testament to her remarkable talent, resilience, and dedication. With a net worth of $12 million and a career that spans film, television, and production, Henson has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Her roles in films like Hustle & Flow, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and Hidden Figures have showcased her versatility and depth as an actress.
Henson’s television success, particularly her iconic role in Empire, has solidified her place in Hollywood’s elite. Her advocacy for fair compensation and her commitment to personal health and wellness further demonstrate her influence both on and off the screen.
As she continues to inspire with her work and her advocacy, Taraji P. Henson remains a prominent and respected figure in the entertainment industry. Her journey is a compelling story of success, perseverance, and the impact of talent and hard work.
