Terrence Howard likes to speak his mind. The actor has been critical of people and organizations he’s interacted with in the past if he feels they’ve slighted him, and the Creative Artists Agency is his latest target. Howard is suing the CAA over salary disputes made during his time on the hit TV series Empire. Despite the show’s cultural impact, the actor told Straight Talk that he was given misleading information by the Hollywood organization. Information that led to him being seriously underpaid for years.
Howard was paid $325K per episode of Empire. It sounds like very good money, but the actor claimed that Empire was drawing more viewers than The Big Bang Theory during its peak. The correlation? Well, the cast members of The Big Bang Theory were making a whopping $2-3 million per episode. Howard told Straight Talk that he’s owed $120 million because of a package deal that CAA had with Fox. Things got even worse when Howard tried to rectify the situation with the organization. After demanding he be paid what he’s owed, the actor was sent a check for a measly $666. That check proved to be the last straw.
“$666 dollars exactly and not saying where it’s from so I was like oh y’all trying to threaten me,” Howard theorized. “This is a threat right here, do y’all think I am scared? Do y’all think I’m going to be quiet about this? Because I wonder what you’re doing to every other black artist.” The actor claimed that his primary motivator while appearing on Empire was to make money, and now that he’s owed a substantial amount, he wants to retire from Hollywood altogether. “I want my money so I don’t have to work,” he explained. “That’s the whole point of working. I wanted to retire so I can do what I gotta do.”
Howard’s Straight Talk interview went viral on social media shortly after its release. Many emphasized with the actor not being compensated, but a lot of the attention went to his appearance. In what can only be described as a bold fashion move, Howard detailed his legal troubles while wearing a butterfly collar suit and a feathered wig. Some users claimed the actor was dressing in an outlandish fashion to draw attention to his cause, while others simply found it amusing that he looked like a member of Charlie’s Angels. Regardless, Howard is committed to his cause.
50 Cent is one of the most active celebrities on Instagram. He uses the platform for a variety of different purposes. Often he’s flexing his own achievements and status. Other times he’s commenting on the social and political issues of the day. For much of the second half of last year he was blasting Diddy almost daily with a variety of posts taking aim at the rap mogul new series of lawsuits. But he also occasionally pulls back the curtain on the music, film, and TV industries to try and identify when he sees injustice.
That was the case recently when 50 shared a clip of Terence Howard. In the video, Howard is explaining how little money he made off of Hustle & Flow because of the way Paramount structured his contract. He revealed that he’s had to go the legal route to try and get the money they owe him. In the caption 50 reacts to the video. “This shit hurt my stomach to hear @theterrencehoward say this. fvck em I need the best actors and I’m gonna pay them. @tarajiphenson you cool with @therealmaryjblige ask her, she got a BIG FVCKIN BAG.GLGGREENLIGHTGANG,” his caption begins. Check out the video itself and 50’s full reaction to it below.
50 Cent will serve as a coach in the upcoming NBA Celebrity All-Star game. He and Shannon Sharpe will coach one team against Lil Wayne and Stephen A. Smith coaching the other. Though the game is still days away there’s already been plenty of trash talking. 50 and Wayne in particular have been making big promises about their teams and their coaching ability, though it all seems to be pretty friendly and in good faith.
What do you think of 50 Cent’s thoughts on how little Terrence Howard made from Hustle & Flow? Do you think 50 is serious about paying his actors what they deserve to make? Let us know in the comment section below.
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)
50 Cent knows his way around the courtroom. Over the years, 50 (real name Curtis Jackson) has been named in or initiated a lawsuit (or two). In many of these cases, Jackson either came out victorious or settled in his favor. On Friday, January 5, Jackson revealed that he’s willing to provide what he’s learned in the legal system with his Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ co-star Terrence Howard.
Last month, Howard sued the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) for breach of fiduciary duty. During his press conference on December 8, 2023, Howard alleged that the CAA told him to take a lower salary for the popular FOX show Empire. In a post shared to Jackson’s official Instagram page, he offered to help Howard with his Empire lawsuit.
“Damn, Terrence Howard, call my phone,”wrote Jackson, reposting a clip from the press conference. “I will get you the money they were supposed to get for you. I’m not playing no games over here.”
Jackson has done his sharing of online trolling surrounding other hot topics, but he seems sincere. However, since he is reportedly in mediation for a Power-related lawsuit, with another eight-figure filing awaiting him, Jackson’s hands are already quite full. Neither Howard nor his legal representative have responded to Jackson’s offer.
50 Centhas come to the rescue of actor Terrence Howard.This comes after the award-winning actor sued the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) over a salary dispute related to his role on the hit show Empire.
Justice In Hollywood
50 Cent has extended his support to Terrence Howard amid his lawsuit against the Creative Arts Agency (CAA) over his past Empire salary.
The Hustle & Flow actor claimed that the agency asked him to accept a lower salary, citing a practice known as “packaging.” In a show of solidarity, 50 Cent took to Instagram to offer his support and vowed to ensure that Howard receives the money he is rightfully owed.
In December 2023, Howard filed a lawsuit against the CAA, alleging breach of fiduciary duty. The actor, known for his portrayal of Lucious Lyon on Empire, claimed that the talent agency had pressured him to accept a lower salary for the popular show from 2015 to 2020.
‘Packaging’?
The issue was attributed to the practice of “packaging,” in which an agency earns money by attaching talent to projects. Howard’s lawyer, James Bryant, explained at a press conference that agencies have found a lucrative way to make money by representing actors, producers, production companies, and their own financial interests.
This practice, according to Bryant, has led to agencies becoming more powerful. Showing his support for Howard, 50 Cent, who signed a production deal with Fox in 2023, took to Instagram on January 4 and offered his assistance. The rapper/TV mogul posted:
“Damn @theterrencehoward call my phone I will get you the money they was supposed to get for you. Im not playing no games over here.”
Users in the comment section reacted to 50 Cent’s offer to Howard. One user named @ironbonesjones_ commented “50 is about to take over television,” and one other user named @lil_deb_no_snack_cake commented “Terrence Howard in the Power Universe is going to be crazy.”
Past Collaborations
Interestingly, 50 Cent and Terrance Howard go way back. They collaborated in 2005 on the New York rapper’s acting debut, the semi-autobiographical film Get Rich or Die Tryin‘, which shared its title with the rapper’s iconic debut album.
This connection adds another layer of significance to 50 Cent’s offer of support.
Howard had claimed that at the peak of Empire’s success, he was being paid $325,000 per episode. He believed that racism played a role in his salary being significantly lower than other leading men, such as Jon Hamm and Kevin Spacey, who earned around $500,000 per episode for their respective shows, Mad Men and House of Cards.
Despite 50 Cent’s public offer, Howard has not yet responded or indicated whether he will accept his support.
Taraji P. Henson Talks Unfair Pay In Hollywood
This show of solidarity from 50 Cent to Terrence Howard in his salary dispute with CAA echoes similar instances in the entertainment industry. Just recently, Taraji P. Henson, Howard’s co-star in Hustle & Flow, shared her frustration with the pay disparity in Hollywood.
In a candid interview, Henson expressed her disappointment in working hard yet receiving only a fraction of what she believes she deserves. This ongoing discussion highlights the need for equality and fairness when it comes to compensation in the entertainment industry.
Mo’Nique Settles Lawsuit With Netflix
In a similar vein, Mo’Niquesettled her lawsuit against Netflix after claiming the streaming service refused to negotiate with her for a proposed 2017 comedy special. She accused the company of discrimination and making a low offer.
50 Cent has offered to help Terrence Howard with his lawsuit against talent agency giant CAA. “Damn @theterrencehoward call my phone I will get you the money they was supposed to get for you. Im not playing no games over here,” Fif wrote on social media. Fif and Howard were co-stars in 2005’s Get Rich Or Die Tryin’.
Howard is suing CAA over a failure of fiduciary duty. According to Howard’s suit, CAA prioritized their own financial interests through “packaging” deals rather than serving him, the client. Furthermore, Howard railed against the pay discrepancy between himself and other CAA talent. While Howard was making $325K an episode on Empire, he claims this paled in comparison to what white CAA talent was making. According to Howard, Jon Hamm and Kevin Spacey were making over $500K an episode for Mad Men and House of Cards respectively.
Meanwhile, Fif is getting requests for roles in his own blockbuster show, Power. “Then 50 pulled back up, looking directly at me. This n-gga literally puts his hand on my shoulder — ‘Yo brah, take a picture with my little mans real quick; he f-ck with you,’” Kai Cenat told his viewers during a recent stream. Cenat claimed of the interaction at a recent Knicks-Bucks game. “I wasn’t in the moment of time of thinking that you were right there in front of me, but I should’ve asked you, ‘Would you let me on Power, 50?’ So I need everybody to get this video to 50,” Cenat added.
Cenat has been making a name for himself throughout the year as his star has shone brighter and brighter. This included getting a Christmas present from Ice Spice. The present in question was one of Spice’s branded chia pets. While Cenat was very excited to receive a gift from Spice, he was slightly confused by the gift. After closely inspecting the gift, Cenat declared that it didn’t look too much like Spice at all. Regardless, he was very happy to have received something from the high-profile rapper.
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)
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.
Famed actor and star of the award winning movie Hustle & Flow recently revealed in a recent interview that he only made $12,000 for his starring role in the pimp-centered flick and the financial struggles faced during the making and promotion of one of the biggest films in his career.
The 2005 movie in which Howard played “DJay”, a hard nosed, dirty south pimp with a penchant for rapping, didn’t yield the success for Howard that was received by the film itself, with his low salary coupled by the fact that Paramount Pictures took the award winning actor’s performance loyalties.
Howard also spoke of his desire to remove the middlemen, such as agents, managers, and unions, who he believes have not adequately supported actors. According to Howard, the unions, particularly the Screen Actors Guild (SAG), have done very little to help actors, despite claiming to be advocates for their rights.
After decades in the entertainment industry, Terrence Howard announced his plans to retire from acting. The actor made things clear in a recent interview, saying, “This is the end for me.”
Sitting down with Entertainment Tonight, the Empire star revealed some sage advice that he received from the late actor Sidney Poitier in the past.
Terrence Howard is ready to pass the torch to the next generation of young Hollywood actors.https://t.co/xNPPppj7LS
“I asked Sidney Poitier 10 years ago does he want to do any more work, and he said, ‘Why would I spend my last 10 years doing an impersonation of myself?’ And that’s what I’ve gotten to.” Howard shared.
While revealing his appreciation for new actors, the 53-year-old continues, “I’ve gotten to the point where now I’ve given the very best that I have as an actor. Now I’m enjoying watching other new talent come around, and I don’t want to do an impersonation of myself.”
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 14: Terrence Howard stars in a new ad campaign for Tubi, the worlds largest free movie and TV streaming service on October 14, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Tubi)
The Chicago native has enjoyed a successful career since he started in the early 1990s.
After making guest appearances in various sitcoms, he later starred in Ray, Crash, and Four Brothers. In 2006, Howard earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in Hustle & Flow.
Per Complex, the actor previously claimed in 2019 that he would retire after Empire officially ended. Though the hit Fox show finished with six seasons in 2020, Howard continued to act in several films.
But now, it appears the Best Manstar is finally ready to leave the profession.
Rooting for his fellow entertainers to find success, Howard also shared with Entertainment Tonight, “Yes, there’s some better actors out there that can do things that I was never able to do. So, I want to applaud them, I want to be excited about what they do.”
What are your thoughts on the seasoned actor ending his years-long career? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
I need the best actors and I’m gonna pay them. @tarajiphenson you cool with @therealmaryjblige ask her, she got a BIG FVCKIN BAG.
GLG
GREENLIGHTGANG,” his caption begins. Check out the video itself and 50’s full reaction to it below. 
