Queen Latifah took a moment to speak on pay inequality for Black actresses in Hollywood while hosting the NAACP Image Awards at the Los Angeles Shrine Auditorium on Saturday night. In doing so, she shared support for Taraji P. Henson, who previously admitted she had considered retirement due to the income disparity.
“It’s no secret we are facing some seriously pivotal issues,” Queen Latifah said during her monologue. “Everyone is talking about inflation. You know what’s not feeling inflation?” The camera then cut to Henson who remarked: “Equal pay for Black actresses.” Latifah added: “Everybody else in this hall room stand up for all of us Black actresses who have been representing for us. Support us. Join us. Because it’s you who stand next to us every day. We know this and we want to say thank you.”
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 16: Queen Latifah speaks onstage during the 55th NAACP Image Awards at Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall on March 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images for BET)
Henson later elaborated on the topic while accepting the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture for The Color Purple. “I just want to thank you guys so much for showing up for me all the time, not just to the box office or watching what I’m in but y’all saw what happened and y’all showed up, you showed out, you showed me love,” Henson said during her speech. “It’s a scary thing to speak your truth but I urge you all to speak your truth because at the end of the day that’s all we have. And like they say, the truth will set you free. And not only that, it will set somebody else free.” Check out her back-and-forth with Latifah below.
Queen Latifah & Taraji P. Henson On Pay Inequality
Queen Latifah: “You know what’s not feeling inflation?”
Elsewhere during the NAACP Image Awards, Usher took home the award for Entertainer of the Year. He also accepted the President’s Award for his work in public service through his New Look Foundation. Be on the lookout for further updates on Queen Latifah on HotNewHipHop.
Reflecting on Taraji P. Henson’s messages about pay disparity in Hollywood, Jada Pinkett Smith chimed in stating she was shorted due to being married to Will Smith.
Speaking on NPR’s It’s Been a Minute, Pinkett Smith saluted Henson for speaking out, while revealing her own pay battles.
“What people don’t understand with us as Black entertainers, we carry a lot of people with us,” Pinkett Smith said. “People would literally say, ‘Well, you don’t need it. You’re married to Will.’”
You can hear the full episode below.
Actress Taraji P. Henson went viral in Decemeber after breaking down in tears during an interview with Gayle King about black women’s pay in Hollywood. Taraji talked about the pay disparities for Black female actors and revealed she was considering quitting her acting career. Now Taraji shares she was surprised by the overwhelming support, because she along with other women of color have been talking about this publicly for years to no avail.
ETonline reports:
Taraji P. Henson was not expecting the amount of support, feedback and attention she has received since passionately speaking out about her experiences with pay disparity throughout her career.
The Color Purple actress walked the red carpet at this years’ Palm Springs International Film Festival’s Film Awards at the Palm Springs Convention Center on Thursday, and she spoke with ET’s Denny Directo about her message, and why she wasn’t expecting it to hit so hard with so many people.
“[It’s] because I’ve been saying it for years,” Henson shared. “If you go and do research and look at any women of color in the industry, they said the same thing.”
“I don’t know why people decided to hear the words [this time], maybe it was the emotion attached to it,” she added. “But like I said in the interview, I’m just tired of us having that same conversation. Something’s gotta give.”
Usher has a full schedule over the next few days: He’s dropping a new album, Coming Home, on Friday, and a couple days later, he’s performing the Super Bowl Halftime Show. So, it would be an awful time for the entertainer to go missing, but that is just what has happened… not in real life, but in a new teaser video from Apple Music.
The video starts with Ludacris, Lil Jon, and Taraji P. Henson hanging around outdoors (outside of a fancy Las Vegas hotel, perhaps?). The trio then FaceTimes Apple CEO Tim Cook (who’s wearing an Usher graphic tee), and he asks how a dinner they had last night went. They then break the news that they lost Usher and don’t know where he is, which prompts a disappointed Cook to hang up. He then texts the group, “You will find him!”
This presumably sets up a series that will continued to be shared in the days leading up to the big performance. Perhaps most notably, though, this ad might serve as a teaser of Ludacris and Lil Jon joining Usher to perform their hit collaboration “Yeah!” during the halftime show. We’ll know for sure this weekend.
Taraji P. Henson’s career in the entertainment industry is a compelling story of talent, tenacity, and transformation. From her early roles to her rise as one of Hollywood’s most versatile and respected actresses, Henson’s journey has continuously evolved. By 2024, her successes in acting and her savvy business moves have culminated in a net worth of $30 million, as reported by Eric Singer, a testament to her enduring impact both on and off the screen.
The Spotlight Beckons: Henson’s Acting Milestones
392442 01: (Editorial Use Only, Copyright Columbia Pictures ) Actress Taraji P. Henson and Actor Tyrese Gibson perform in the film “Baby Boy.” (Photo by Courtesy Columbia Pictures/Getty Images)
Henson’s ascent in Hollywood began with standout performances in television and film. It highlighted her exceptional range and depth as an actress. Her breakthrough role in Baby Boy set the tone for a career marked by powerful portrayals. Henson’s performance in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination. This cemented her status as a leading actress. Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the hit series Empire won her widespread recognition. It also showcased her ability to captivate audiences with her charismatic and nuanced performances.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 06: (L-R) Jennifer Hudson, Taraji P. Henson, and Halle Berry attend the Fourth Annual Celebration of Black Cinema & Television, presented by the. Critics Choice Association at Fairmont Century Plaza on December 06, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images for the Critics Choice Association)
Over the years, Henson has amassed a plethora of accolades, underscoring her talent and contributions to the arts. Her awards include a Golden Globe for her role in Empire and multiple NAACP Image Awards. This further proved her influence as a performer and trailblazer in the industry. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to break barriers have made her an inspiration and a role model for aspiring actors.
Beyond The Camera’s Gaze: Henson’s Personal Endeavors
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 15: (L-R) Joan Collins and Taraji P. Henson present the Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series award for “Beef” to Lee Sung Jin onstage during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards at Peacock Theater on January 15, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Monica Schipper/WireImage)
Away from the limelight, Henson is equally dynamic and influential. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and her efforts to destigmatize mental illness, especially in the African American community, demonstrate her commitment to societal change. Her personal life, marked by a balance of privacy and advocacy, reflects her values and dedication to making a difference beyond her professional achievements.
Taraji P. Henson’s journey to a net worth of $30 million is a narrative of an artist who has consistently broken new ground. Her career is a testament to her immense talent, business acumen, and unwavering commitment to using her platform for positive change, making her one of the most influential figures in contemporary entertainment.
Oprah Winfrey shot down the “disturbing” rumors she’s heard about feuding with Taraji P. Henson over The Color Purple. Speaking with Gayle King for CBS Mornings at the Golden Globes, last week, Winfrey addressed Henson’s recent complaints about cast members being told to drive their own rental cars to set.
“It’s so disturbing to me,” Winfrey said of the rumors. “Why is my name even in this conversation? Why is my name in this conversation? ‘Cause I have just been the champion for everybody.” She added: “I heard that Taraji was upset because she had been asked to (use) a rental car. I personally called Toby Emmerich, who was at the time the head of Warner Bros., and he said, ‘Well that means we have to do cars for everybody.’ And I said, ‘Then we do cars for everybody. And if it’s necessary, I will pay for the cars myself.’ He goes, ‘Well, we don’t want you to do that.’”
Oprah Winfrey & Taraji P. Henson Promote “The Color Purple”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 11: Oprah Winfrey and Taraji P. Henson attend THR Presents Live: The Color Purple at Crosby Hotel on December 11, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images)
Henson previously denied having an issue with Winfrey as well in a post on Instagram. “Ms. OPRAH has been nothing less than a steady and solid beacon of light to ALL OF THE CAST of The Color Purple!!!” she said. “She has provided ENCOURAGEMENT, GUIDANCE and UNWAVERING SUPPORT to us all. She told me personally to reach out to her for ANYTHING I needed, and I did!”
Oprah Winfrey On Her Relationship With Taraji P. Henson
The Color Purple hit theaters back on December 25, 2023. In addition to Henson, the film stars Colman Domingo, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Halle Bailey, and more. Be on the lookout for further updates on Oprah Winfrey on HotNewHipHop.
Taraji P. Henson has been making headlines in recent weeks for raising issues with the way cast members were treated while working on The Color Purple. Countless fans and peers have chimed into the conversation, noting how Black women in the entertainment industry have always been treated unfairly, and undervalued by their white and male counterparts. Amid the discourse, various users have also noted how Mo’Nique raised similar concerns to Henson’s years back, though hers weren’t recognized nearly enough at the time.
During a recent Golden Globes interview, Oprah Winfrey chimed in on the controversy surrounding The Color Purple, which she co-produced. “Everything got handled,” she said of issues on set. “It’s so disturbing to me because why is my name even in this conversation? I’ve been the champion for everybody.” Mo’Nique has now responded to Oprah’s comments, however, and she thinks otherwise.
Mo’Nique Claims Oprah “Didn’t Champion” For The Color Purple Cast
Oprah Winfrey speaks on stage during The Robin Hood Foundation’s 2018 benefit at Jacob Javitz Center on May 14, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Robin Hood)
“Everything was, ‘Didn’t I champion for y’all?’ I was like, ‘Stop it. You didn’t champion for those Black women, for our sisters,” Mo’Nique told The Root this week. “What [she] did was, ‘We can treat them like we always treat them, who gon’ check me boo? I’m Oprah Winfrey.’” She went on, noting how the issues raised should have been handled before the women stepped on set. “You know everything should have been done when you showed up…Now when you hear our beautiful sisters saying, ‘yeah but it got fixed,’ it’s like we’re making it worse.”
“So, when Oprah Winfrey sits at the helm and Taraji P. Henson says, ‘It’s an honor that we were hand-picked for this movie,’ Well, if they were hand-picked for that movie, those women should have been taken care of from the moment go.” What do you think of Mo’Nique finally speaking out following Taraji P. Henson’s complaints about working on The Color Purple? Do you agree with her? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
Gabrielle Union liked a post on Twitter throwing shade at Vivica A. Fox following her recent response to Taraji P. Henson’s comments on unfair pay in Hollywood. Speaking with TMZ, Fox had claimed she hasn’t experienced any of the problems that brought Henson to tears during an interview with Gayle King. Union liked a post remarking, “She hasn’t experienced Taraji’s successes either. Next.”
While talking to TMZ, Fox had explained: “To each [their] own. I am very happy, very blessed. To each [their] own. I didn’t have that experience, so…you know. But to get your piece out is important. I totally understand that. And I love my girls for looking out for each other. But… I’m good.”
Gabrielle Union & Taraji P. Henson Attend “The Perfect Find” Premiere
MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA – JUNE 16: Taraji P. Henson and Gabrielle Union attend the premiere of “The Perfect Find” presented by Netflix during the American Black Film Festival at New World Center on June 16, 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. (Photo by Ivan Apfel/Getty Images)
Henson originally broke down while speaking about retiring from acting with King. “I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do [and] getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Henson admitted. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired. I hear people go, ‘You work a lot.’ Well, I have to. The math ain’t math-ing. When you start working a lot, you have a team. Big bills come with what we do. We don’t do this alone. It’s a whole team behind us. They have to get paid.” Check out the tweets Union liked in response below.
The Neighborhood Talk also noted that Union liked a post dissing Jonathan Majors. Check that up above as well. Be on the lookout for further updates on Gabrielle Union and Taraji P. Henson on HotNewHipHop.
Oprah Winfrey has finally responded to the viral comments made by her TheColor Purple co-star Taraji P. Hensonin a recent interview.
Oprah Speaks Her Piece
Addressing the rumors at the Golden Globes during an interview on Sunday, Jan. 7, with Entertainment Tonight, Oprah Winfrey stated:
“I heard I was trending yesterday because people are saying that I was not supporting Taraji, Taraji will tell you herself that I’ve been the greatest champion for this film, championing not only the behind the scenes production, but also everything that everybody needed. So when I heard that there was something that people needed, I’m not in charge of the budget because that’s Warner Brothers, you know that’s the way the studio system works.”
Amid rumors of tensions with “The Color Purple” star Taraji P. Henson, Oprah sets the record straight with @GayleKing. pic.twitter.com/gbKeknacgK
Fans had mixed reactions to Oprah Winfrey’s response. One user named @Coolness941 agreed when they wrote, “I like how she said she’s not in charge of the budget. People turned her into Warner Brothers (the studio that made the film) and I wanna know why.”
Another user named @HatimSings wrote, “The Color Purple press tour needs a PR makeover. I just saw my second clip of Oprah on the Golden Globes red carpet shutting down feud rumors with Taraji. How is this the focus of the red carpet?!?!”
Hot-Air Balloon Beef?
The Hustle & Flow actress’s recent comments in a New York Times interview shed light on the challenges faced by the cast of The Color Purple. She expressed:
“They gave us rental cars, and I was like, ‘I can’t drive myself to set in Atlanta.’ This is insurance liability, it’s dangerous. Now they robbing people. What do I look like, taking myself to work by myself in a rental car? So I was like, ‘Can I get a driver or security to take me?’ I’m not asking for the moon. They’re like, ‘Well, if we do it for you, we got to do it for everybody.’ Well, do it for everybody! It’s stuff like that, stuff I shouldn’t have to fight for.”
Prior, numerous speculations arose regarding the “tension” between Taraji P. Henson and Oprah Winfrey during the press tour for The Color Purple. In a viral video featuring the cast on a hot-air balloon, observers speculated about the tension between the two, as it seemed that Oprah was unwilling to be near Taraji.
The exchange occurred shortly after Taraji began speaking out about her compensation as an actress and the treatment she typically receives while working on various film sets.
‘The Color Purple’ Press Run
Throughout the press run, several cast members, including Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, andFantasia Barrino-Taylor, have been openly vocal about their experiences on set.
These actors have highlighted issues such as the lack of dressing rooms and the need for better working conditions. Winfrey, being one of the film’s producers, has played a crucial role in addressing these concerns and ensuring that the cast’s needs are met.
The cast acknowledged and appreciated her commitment to making things right. Winfrey continued with Entertainment Tonight:
“We as producers, everybody gets their salary everybody is negotiated by your team. And so, whenever I heard there was an issue or there was a problem…there was a problem with a car or the problem with their food, I would step in and do whatever I could to make it right. And I believe that she would even vouch for that and say that is true,” She then expressed, “There’s no validity to there being a thing between Taraji and I.”
Updated By: Yasmine Duhé (1/8/23 at 3:16 pm)
Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, Gabrielle Union & More Join Terrance Howard In Exposing Unfair Pay In Hollywood
After fellow actor and Hustle & Flow costar Terrance Howard spoke out about the pay in the entertainment industry, Taraji P. Hensonhas now recently opened up. In an emotional interview, Henson expressed her frustration with working hard yet receiving only a fraction of what she believes she deserves. Keke Palmer,Robin Thede, and Gabrielle Union have since joined the conversation, adding their voices to the growing concerns about equity and pay in the entertainment industry.
Taraji Gets Emotional
Shortly after fellow actor and costar Terrance Howard recently spoke out about the pay in the entertainment industry with Alex Coleman, Taraji P. Henson,known for her roles in movies like Baby Boy and Hustle & Flow, has ignited another conversation surrounding underpaid issues in Hollywood.
During an emotional interview with Gayle King onDec. 19, the seasoned actress passionately shared her dissatisfaction with Hollywood’s current pay state. She revealed that despite her dedication and talent, she is paid significantly less than she believes she should be. Henson painted a picture of Black actors’ harsh reality, expressing her concern for the actors who will come after her. She tearfully exclaimed:
“If I can’t fight for them coming up behind me, then what the fuck am I doing!” Henson’s emotional plea resonated with many in the industry.
Fellow Actresses Chime In
Gabrielle Union, another prominent actress, quickly expressed her support for the Acrimony star’s statement. The Being Mary Jane star affirmed that Henson’s words were the truth. Union emphasized the importance of fighting for the next generation of actors and supporting their peers:
“Not a damn lie told. Not. A. Damn. Lie. We go TO BAT for the next generation and hell even our own generation and above.”
Keke Palmer, known for her roles in both film and television, took to Instagram to share her thoughts on the matter. The actress/singer took to her Instagram and reposted a slideshow of comedian/actress Robin Thede expressing her views on payment issues in the entertainment industry. She captioned the post:
“The entertainment industry is just like any other industry. We run businesses to keep our brands afloat, us being the brand/business. And it’s that team of company members that decrease any assumed large lump sum. This includes monthly expenses just like everyone else. In the words of biggie “more money more problems.”
Doses Of Taraji
Taraji P. Henson’s extensive filmography, boasting over 45 movies including, Baby Boy,Hustle & Flow, and her current project, The Color Purple – set to release in theaters on Christmas Day – showcases her talent and dedication to the craft.
Updated By: Steven Samuel (12/21/23 at 1:52 pm)
Terrence Howard’s Reveal Of $12K ‘Hustle & Flow’ Salary Spotlights Hollywood Underpay
Terrence Howard, known for his roles in movies like Hustle and Flow and Iron Man, recently shed light on the issue of underpaid actors and actresses in Hollywood. The award-winning actor’s revelations have reignited discussions about fair compensation within the entertainment industry.
Howard Speaks On Low Pay
In a candid interview, Terrance Howard sat down with Alex Coleman on Live at 9 and talked about his pay for the movie Hustle and Flow. The Chicago native revealed the meager $12,000 he received for his breakthrough role in the film, wherein he also faced additional financial setbacks due to contractual issues.
This raises concerns about actors’ treatment and unions’ role in safeguarding their interests. Howard also disclosed that Paramount Pictures not only paid him a paltry sum but also took advantage of his performances by diverting the royalties to their own pockets.
This situation led Howard to pursue legal action against the studio to claim the royalties he believes he is owed. He stated:
“And then on top of that, what Paramount did, instead of putting my name as ‘Terrence Howard’ performing the songs, they put ‘performed by Djay.’ Well, they owned Djay, so guess what? The performance royalties went to Paramount. So now, I’ve got to sue Paramount, and send them a letter to say, ‘Hey, you guys owe me about 20 years’ worth of residuals and performance royalties.’ I was just trying to pay my rent then.”
Furthermore, Howard expressed his frustrations with the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), stating that the union failed to support him. Howard went on to express:
“I want to get rid of the agents, I want to get rid of the managers, I want to get rid of the unions. SAG has done nothing. They sit up and say they’re here for us now they’re talking because they haven’t gotten their money. When I went to SAG five years ago saying FOX stole my image from Hustle & Flow and they’re monetizing it, SAG didn’t do anything to help me. They waited nine months until the statute of limitations was up. They’re not here to help the actors, they’re here to make their money.”
The Empire star’s story is not an isolated incident. Other actors have also experienced underpayment in the industry:
“I .was only paid $10,000 for the part. It’s one of those things—it was just a small movie. We filmed it in 20 days. I got about $10,000 for it or whatever, I didn’t care. I wanted the opportunity.”
James Earl Jones
In addition, iconic actor James Earl Jones, renowned for his portrayal of Darth Vader in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, divulged that he received a mere $7,000 for his iconic role in the groundbreaking film.
Taraji P. Henson
Taraji P. Henson, Howard’s Hustle and Flow and Empire co-star, has also faced unequal compensation. The popular actress disclosed that she was paid $150,000 for her Oscar-nominated role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a fraction of what her white co-stars received.
This disparity in pay points to a systemic issue of racial discrimination and biases in the industry. She said:
“I’m not saying they shouldn’t have paid Cate and Brad what they deserved. They deserved that because when this comes out, people are coming because of Brad, and they’re going to discover me. I’m bringing a certain amount to the seat, too, and I felt like what I was asking at that time in my career was fair.”
Howard Retires From The Television Screen
In relevance to Terrance Howard’s acting ventures, in 2019, the Empire star saw his retirement coming sooner than later. The popular veteran actor had announced his intent to fall back from acting once his Fox series ended.
Mo’Nique Says ‘Give Us What We Rightfully Deserve’
The plight of underpaid actors and actresses extends beyond the big screen. Mo’Nique, alongside Countess Vaughn, and her husband, Sidney Hicks, advocated for fair compensation for their roles in the hit television series The Parkers. Their demands shed light on the ongoing struggle for equitable pay within the entertainment industry.
Originally Written By: Kynedei Iman Hobbs (11/16/23 at 3:52 pm)
During her interview with Gayle King last month, Taraji P. Henson got emotional while reflecting on being underpaid throughout her career. Her comments have since managed to spark a major discussion about gender and racial disparities in the entertainment industry. Countless social media users and peers have chimed in, including Keke Palmer, Chance The Rapper, Boosie Badazz, and more.
She later shared some of the mistreatment she’s endured as a Black actress in Hollywood in an interview with the New York Times, claiming that the cast of The Color Purple were given rental cars to get to set. “They gave us rental cars, and I was like, ‘I can’t drive myself to set in Atlanta,’” she explained. “This is insurance liability, it’s dangerous. Now they robbing people. What do I look like, taking myself to work by myself in a rental car? So I was like, ‘Can I get a driver or security to take me?’ I’m not asking for the moon. They’re like, ‘Well, if we do it for you, we got to do it for everybody.’ Well, do it for everybody! It’s stuff like that, stuff I shouldn’t have to fight for. I was on the set of Empire fighting for trailers that wasn’t infested with bugs.”
Now, a clip of Danielle Brooks sharing how Henson advocated for her castmates has surfaced, in which she reveals that she had to ask Oprah directly for accommodations. According to her, actors weren’t given private dressing rooms or food on the set of The Color Purple. Eventually, Oprah heard about this and called Henson, who let her know that something needed to be done. From there, the issues were squared away, but it remains shocking that a group of award-winning actors even had to ask.
What do you think of Danielle Brooks opening up about being on the set of The Color Purple? What about her claim that they didn’t have their own dressing rooms or food on set until Oprah caught wind of the situation? Share your thoughts in the comments section down below, and keep an eye on HNHH for more updates.
This comes on the heels of a previously resolved pay dispute where Henson, alongside the cast, had concerns about their salaries. The intervention of Oprah Winfrey, an executive producer of the film, facilitated the resolution of the payment issue.
Henson’s latest grievance revolves around the lack of chauffeured transportation to the set while filming in Atlanta. In an interview with the New York Times, she emphasized the potential safety hazards of driving herself, stating, “They gave us rental cars, and I was like, ‘I can’t drive myself to the set in Atlanta.’ This is insurance liability; it’s dangerous. Now they’re robbing people. What do I look like, taking myself to work by myself in a rental car?”
The acclaimed actress raised a valid point about the need for equal treatment, emphasizing that her request for a driver or security was not an extravagant demand. However, the production company reportedly responded that providing such services for her would necessitate extending the same to everyone.
Henson expressed frustration, stating, “It’s stuff like that, stuff I shouldn’t have to fight for. I was on the set of ‘Empire’ fighting for trailers that weren’t infested with bugs.”
This battle for equal treatment in the industry has taken a toll on Henson’s mental health. “It wears on your soul because you fight so hard to establish a name for yourself and be respected in this town to no avail,” she shared.
Support for Henson poured in from her fans, who echoed her concerns about the potential danger of stars driving themselves in unfamiliar cities, particularly in a place like Atlanta with high crime rates. The sentiment on social media reflected a consensus that Henson’s request for proper transportation was not unreasonable but a matter of basic safety and respect for the cast.
Taraji P. Henson who played Shug Avery in the 2023 musical adaptation of “The Color Purple,” has expressed dissatisfaction with a production company’s decision to provide rental cars instead of proper transportation support for the cast in Atlanta.
This comes on the heels of a previously resolved pay dispute where Henson, alongside the cast, had concerns about their salaries. The intervention of Oprah Winfrey, an executive producer of the film, facilitated the resolution of the payment issue.
Henson’s latest grievance revolves around the lack of chauffeured transportation to the set while filming in Atlanta. In an interview with the New York Times, she emphasized the potential safety hazards of driving herself, stating, “They gave us rental cars, and I was like, ‘I can’t drive myself to the set in Atlanta.’ This is insurance liability; it’s dangerous. Now they’re robbing people. What do I look like, taking myself to work by myself in a rental car?”
The acclaimed actress raised a valid point about the need for equal treatment, emphasizing that her request for a driver or security was not an extravagant demand. However, the production company reportedly responded that providing such services for her would necessitate extending the same to everyone.
Henson expressed frustration, stating, “It’s stuff like that, stuff I shouldn’t have to fight for. I was on the set of ‘Empire’ fighting for trailers that weren’t infested with bugs.”
This battle for equal treatment in the industry has taken a toll on Henson’s mental health. “It wears on your soul because you fight so hard to establish a name for yourself and be respected in this town to no avail,” she shared.
Support for Henson poured in from her fans, who echoed her concerns about the potential danger of stars driving themselves in unfamiliar cities, particularly in a place like Atlanta with high crime rates. The sentiment on social media reflected a consensus that Henson’s request for proper transportation was not unreasonable but a matter of basic safety and respect for the cast.
