Taraji P. Henson: Bio, Career, Family, Net Worth, and More

Taraji P. Henson is an American actress, producer, and author who has made a profound impact on the entertainment industry with her stellar performances in both film and television. Known for her resilience and unwavering talent, she has become one of Hollywood’s most admired figures. This article explores various aspects of her life, including her career, personal life, net worth, and more.

Early Life and Background

Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. She grew up in a tough environment but found solace and purpose in acting at a young age. Her mother, Bernice Gordon, worked as a corporate manager, while her father, Boris Henson, was a metal fabricator. Henson has two younger siblings and was raised in a supportive, yet challenging household.

She attended Howard University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts. To fund her education, she worked various jobs, including as a secretary at the Pentagon, all while pursuing her passion for performance. Her time at Howard helped her hone her craft and laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable career in acting.

The Beginnings of a Career

Henson’s career took off after she made her film debut in 2001 as Yvette in the movie Baby Boy. Her portrayal of a strong yet vulnerable character immediately caught the attention of audiences and critics alike. However, it was her breakout role as Shug in the 2005 film Hustle & Flow that truly solidified her presence in Hollywood. Her performance, which included singing the Oscar-winning song “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” earned her critical acclaim and opened doors to more significant roles.

Henson’s diverse talent was further showcased in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), where she starred alongside Brad Pitt. The role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. In 2016, she starred in Hidden Figures, a film that highlighted the pivotal contributions of African-American women to NASA’s space program. Her portrayal of mathematician and engineer Mary Jackson was not only powerful but also reinforced Henson’s ability to portray strong, complex female characters.

Iconic Role in Empire

Arguably, Henson’s most iconic role to date is that of Cookie Lyon in the hit TV show Empire (2015–2020). Her portrayal of the ambitious, fiery, and fiercely protective matriarch Cookie earned her a Golden Globe Award and made her a household name. The show was a cultural phenomenon, and Henson’s performance received widespread praise for its depth and authenticity.

Beyond her acting, Henson’s success in Empire helped raise awareness around issues such as race, family dynamics, and power struggles within the music industry. She also became a symbol of strength for Black women in Hollywood, constantly breaking barriers and defying stereotypes through her roles.

Personal Life: Relationships and Family

Although Taraji P. Henson’s career has been the focus of much public attention, her personal life has also been widely discussed. She has had notable relationships, with her most publicized being her engagement to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden. The couple became engaged in 2018, and their relationship was a subject of media fascination. However, in October 2020, Henson and Hayden decided to call off their engagement.

Before her relationship with Kelvin Hayden, Henson had been in several other relationships but has always remained private about her personal life. She has one son, Marcell Johnson, from a previous relationship. Her son is a significant part of her life, and she often shares her joy and pride in raising him. Despite her relationship challenges, Henson continues to thrive both personally and professionally.

In interviews, Henson has emphasized the importance of self-love and self-empowerment. She is an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within the Black community, and founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her late father. The foundation focuses on providing mental health support and resources to underserved communities, particularly African Americans.

Physical Stats: Height, Weight, and More

Taraji P. Henson stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) tall and weighs approximately 143 lbs (65 kg). She maintains an hourglass figure, with body measurements of 38-28-37 inches. Her dark brown eyes and hair complement her striking appearance, and she has become a fashion icon as well as a beauty inspiration to many.

Taraji P. Henson’s Net Worth and Income

As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson’s net worth is estimated at $30 million. Over the years, she has earned significant income through her acting roles, endorsements, and business ventures. Her monthly income is approximately $650,000, while her annual income is estimated at around $7.8 million.

In addition to her acting career, Henson has ventured into other businesses, including her own hair care line. She has also made significant investments in her community, with her foundation supporting mental health causes. Henson’s ability to leverage her fame into business success has further contributed to her wealth.

Career Highlights and Awards

Taraji P. Henson’s career is marked by numerous accomplishments, from blockbuster films to groundbreaking television roles. Here are some of her most notable achievements:

• Academy Award Nomination: Henson received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008).
• Golden Globe Award: She won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in Empire (2015).
• NAACP Image Awards: Henson has received multiple NAACP Image Awards, which celebrate outstanding performances by African Americans in film and television.
• Other Films: Her other notable roles include performances in Hustle & Flow, Proud Mary, and The Best of Enemies.

Henson’s ability to take on diverse roles—whether in drama, comedy, or musical genres—has made her one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses.

Taraji P. Henson’s Advocacy and Charity Work

Beyond her acting, Taraji P. Henson has become a voice for important causes, especially mental health awareness. Through the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, she works to destigmatize mental health issues in African-American communities and provides resources for those in need of care. The foundation also supports underserved individuals, with a focus on children and families. Henson has been a passionate advocate for increasing access to mental health services and breaking down the barriers that often prevent marginalized groups from seeking help.

Challenges in Public Life

Navigating the public eye comes with its challenges, especially for a prominent figure like Taraji P. Henson. Her relationship with Kelvin Hayden, as well as her personal life, has been widely covered in the media. At times, the couple faced intense scrutiny, and their privacy was constantly tested. Henson has openly discussed the difficulties of managing a relationship in the public eye and the strain it can place on her personal life.

Yet, despite the pressures, Henson has always remained focused on her career and her mission to promote positive change. She continues to inspire millions of fans with her resilience, dedication to her craft, and commitment to mental health advocacy.

Future Plans and Legacy

Looking forward, Taraji P. Henson has several exciting projects in the works. She has expressed a desire to continue exploring both film and television, seeking out roles that challenge her and allow her to expand her range as an actress. In addition, Henson has big dreams of traveling the world, starting a charity to help children, and building a life with her family that is grounded in love and mutual respect.

Her legacy, both as an actress and an advocate, will continue to inspire future generations of performers and activists. Taraji P. Henson is a shining example of success, hard work, and resilience, and her journey is far from over.

Conclusion

Taraji P. Henson’s life and career exemplify the power of perseverance, talent, and a commitment to making a difference. From her humble beginnings in Washington, D.C., to becoming one of Hollywood’s brightest stars, Henson has proven that with determination, anything is possible. She continues to break down barriers, inspire others, and give back to her community, all while remaining grounded and true to herself. As she continues her journey, her fans will undoubtedly continue to follow her every step of the way, eager to see what she accomplishes next.

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