Introduction
Taraji P. Henson is more than just a name in Hollywood; she is a symbol of resilience, talent, and unyielding determination. With a career that spans over two decades, Henson has carved a niche for herself as one of the most versatile and respected actresses in the entertainment industry. But what many admire most is her journey from humble beginnings to a multimillion-dollar net worth. This article delves into Taraji P. Henson’s financial success, exploring her earnings, investments, and the various ventures that contribute to her impressive wealth.
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Taraji Penda Henson |
Gender | Female |
Birthday | September 11, 1970 |
Age | 53 (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Washington, D.C., USA |
Current Residence | Los Angeles, California, USA |
Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African-American |
Religion | Christianity |
Education | Howard University (Degree in Theater Arts) |
Profession | Actress, Singer, Author, Producer, Entrepreneur |
Father | Boris Lawrence Henson |
Mother | Bernice Gordon |
Siblings | 2 (Name not widely publicized) |
Marital Status | Single |
Spouse | None |
Children | 1 (Son: Marcell Johnson) |
Height | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 150 lbs (68 kg) |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Brown |
Net Worth | $25 Million (as of 2024) |
Source of Income | Acting, Endorsements, Real Estate, Business Ventures |
Social Media | Instagram: @tarajiphenson, Twitter: @TherealTaraji |
Who is Taraji P. Henson?
Taraji Penda Henson is a powerhouse of talent, known for her roles in both film and television. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., she has become a household name, recognized not only for her acting skills but also for her contributions as a singer, producer, and philanthropist. Henson’s ability to portray a wide range of characters has earned her accolades, including an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win.
Her most iconic role, perhaps, is that of Cookie Lyon in the hit TV series Empire. But Henson’s success extends far beyond this single character. Her work in films like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Hustle & Flow, and Hidden Figures showcases her versatility and depth as an actress. Today, Taraji P. Henson stands as a symbol of success in Hollywood, with a net worth that reflects her hard work and dedication.
You May Also Like: Andre Hakkak Net Worth: A Comprehensive Insight into the Financial Titan
What is Taraji P. Henson’s Net Worth?
As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. This impressive figure is a testament to her enduring success in the entertainment industry. From her early roles in indie films to her standout performances in major blockbusters, Henson has steadily built her wealth over the years.
Her net worth is not just a result of her acting salary; it also includes earnings from real estate investments, business ventures like her hair care line TPH by Taraji, and various endorsement deals. Henson’s financial overview is a reflection of her ability to diversify her income streams, ensuring a stable and growing wealth portfolio.

Early Life and Education
Taraji P. Henson’s journey to financial success began long before she graced the silver screen. Born to Boris Lawrence Henson, a janitor and metal fabricator, and Bernice Gordon, a corporate manager, Henson was raised in a working-class neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Despite the financial struggles her family faced, Henson was determined to succeed. She attended Oxon Hill High School and later enrolled at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to study electrical engineering. However, her passion for the arts led her to transfer to Howard University, where she pursued a degree in Theater Arts. While at Howard, Henson worked multiple jobs, including as a secretary at the Pentagon and a singing waitress on a dinner cruise ship, to support herself and her young son, Marcell Johnson.
Film and Television Career
Henson’s career in Hollywood began with small roles in television shows like Sister, Sister and ER. However, her breakthrough role came in 2001 when she starred as Yvette in John Singleton’s Baby Boy. This role showcased Henson’s ability to portray complex characters with depth and emotion, earning her critical acclaim. In 2005, Henson starred alongside Terrence Howard in Hustle & Flow, a film that brought her to the forefront of Hollywood. Her role as Shug, the love interest of Howard’s character, earned her a BET Award for Best Actress and an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song for “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” which she performed with Three 6 Mafia at the Oscars.
Henson continued to build her filmography with roles in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), where she played Queenie, the adoptive mother of Brad Pitt’s character. This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, further solidifying her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most talented actresses. Her other notable film roles include The Family That Preys (2008), Hidden Figures (2016), and Acrimony (2018).
Significant Movie Roles
One of Henson’s most significant roles came in Hidden Figures (2016), where she portrayed Katherine Johnson, a mathematician who played a crucial role in NASA’s space missions. The film was a commercial and critical success, grossing over $235 million worldwide and earning multiple award nominations. Henson’s portrayal of Johnson was widely praised, earning her a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture.
Another pivotal role in Henson’s career was her portrayal of Queenie in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. This film not only showcased Henson’s versatility as an actress but also earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her ability to bring emotional depth to her characters has made her a sought-after actress in Hollywood, leading to roles in films like Think Like a Man (2012), No Good Deed (2014), and Proud Mary (2018).
TV Success with Empire
While Henson had already established herself as a film actress, it was her role as Cookie Lyon in the TV series Empire that catapulted her to new heights of fame. Premiering in 2015, Empire quickly became a cultural phenomenon, with Henson’s portrayal of the fierce and outspoken Cookie becoming one of the most iconic characters on television. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama and multiple Primetime Emmy nominations.
Empire not only brought Henson widespread recognition but also significantly boosted her earnings. At the height of the show’s popularity, Henson was reportedly earning $175,000 per episode, making her one of the highest-paid actresses on television. The success of Empire also opened doors for Henson to pursue other opportunities, including hosting duties and endorsement deals.
Salaries and Hollywood Disparity
Despite her success, Henson has been vocal about the pay disparity in Hollywood, particularly for Black actresses. In interviews with Vanity Fair and Gayle King, Henson revealed that she was often paid significantly less than her white counterparts, even for roles in major films. She has spoken out about the need for pay equity in Hollywood, advocating for fair compensation for all actors, regardless of race or gender.
Henson’s advocacy for equal pay is a reflection of her commitment to empowering others and creating positive change in the industry. Despite the challenges she has faced, Henson has continued to push forward, building a successful career and amassing significant wealth along the way.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond her acting career, Henson is deeply committed to philanthropy and mental health advocacy. In 2018, she founded The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her father, to provide mental health support to African-Americans. The foundation aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community and provide resources for those in need. Henson’s dedication to this cause has made a significant impact, raising awareness and funds to support mental health initiatives.
In addition to her philanthropic work, Henson is a devoted mother to her son, Marcell Johnson. She has spoken openly about the challenges of raising a child as a single mother while pursuing a career in Hollywood. Her personal experiences have shaped her perspective and fueled her drive to succeed, both for herself and her family.
Real Estate Investments
Taraji P. Henson’s financial portfolio includes several real estate investments that have contributed to her wealth. She owns a luxurious mansion in the Hollywood Hills, a stunning property that reflects her success and taste for elegance. The Hollywood Hills mansion is one of Henson’s most significant investments, showcasing her eye for prime real estate.
In addition to her Hollywood Hills property, Henson has owned other real estate, including a condo in Chicago and a home in Glendale, California. These investments have not only provided Henson with beautiful places to live but have also contributed to her overall net worth.
Business Ventures
Henson’s business acumen extends beyond acting and real estate. In 2020, she launched TPH by Taraji, a hair care line designed to cater to all hair types and textures. The line has been well-received, praised for its inclusivity and quality. TPH by Taraji is a testament to Henson’s entrepreneurial spirit and her ability to recognize and fill gaps in the market.
In addition to her hair care line, Henson has partnered with M·A·C Cosmetics, serving as the face of their VIVA GLAM line. This collaboration not only boosted Henson’s income but also aligned with her commitment to giving back, as the VIVA GLAM line supports the M·A·C AIDS Fund.
Hosting and Singing Career
Henson’s talents are not limited to acting; she has also made a name for herself as a host and singer. In 2020, she hosted the American Music Awards, bringing her signature energy and charm to the stage. Her hosting duties have extended to other shows, including The Talk and Legendary, where she has captivated audiences with her wit and charisma.
Henson’s singing career, while not as prominent as her acting, has also contributed to her wealth. She has performed songs for several of her films, including Hustle & Flow, where she sang the Oscar-winning track “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp.” Her musical talents have added another dimension to her multifaceted career.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Taraji Penda Henson
- Net Worth: $25 Million (as of 2024)
- Source of Income: Acting, Endorsements, Real Estate, Business Ventures
- Notable Roles: Cookie Lyon