Taraji P. Henson Net Worth, an iconic figure in entertainment, has captivated audiences with her dynamic performances across film and television. From her early beginnings in the industry to becoming an acclaimed actress, producer, and author, Henson’s journey is marked by remarkable achievements and personal growth. This comprehensive post explores Taraji P. Henson’s net worth, biography, age, height, and career highlights, offering an in-depth look at her life and accomplishments.
Early Life and Background
Taraji P. Henson was born Taraji Penda Henson on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Raised in a working-class family, Henson’s early life was shaped by her strong-willed mother, Bernice Gordon, who worked as a corporate manager and often served as her daughter’s biggest supporter. Taraji’s father, Boris Henson, passed away when she was young, leaving a lasting impact on her and her family.
From an early age, Henson showed a passion for the arts, particularly acting. She attended Howard University, where she earned a degree in Theater Arts. Her time at Howard was pivotal, as it provided her with a solid foundation in acting and exposed her to opportunities in the entertainment industry. Her determination and talent were evident even then, setting the stage for her future success.
Breakthrough and Early Career
Taraji P. Henson’s professional career began in the late 1990s, with her first notable role in the film “Hustle & Flow” (2005). Henson played the role of Shug, a supporting character who was a nightclub singer. Her performance was widely praised and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role not only showcased her acting prowess but also marked a significant turning point in her career.
Before “Hustle & Flow,” Henson appeared in various television shows and films, including “The Division” (2001) and “Baby Boy” (2001). Her role in “Baby Boy,” directed by John Singleton, allowed her to demonstrate her versatility as an actress. These early roles helped establish her presence in Hollywood and paved the way for more prominent opportunities.
Rise to Prominence: Key Roles and Achievements
Taraji P. Henson’s rise to prominence continued with several critically acclaimed performances. One of her most significant roles came with the 2008 film “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” where she played Queenie, the caretaker of the title character. Henson’s performance was lauded for its depth and emotional resonance, earning her a second Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Her role as Cookie Lyon in the television series “Empire” (2015-2020) marked a defining moment in her career. “Empire,” created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, was a groundbreaking series that combined elements of drama, music, and family dynamics. Taraji P. Henson’s portrayal of Cookie Lyon, a fierce and ambitious matriarch, earned her widespread acclaim and several awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama.
Henson’s performance on “Empire” was instrumental in solidifying her status as a leading actress in both film and television. The series’ success further elevated her career and expanded her influence in the entertainment industry.
Expanding Horizons: Producing and Authoring
In addition to her acting career, Taraji P. Henson has ventured into producing and writing. Her production company, TPH Entertainment, was established to create content that reflects her creative vision and values. Through TPH Entertainment, Henson has been involved in various projects, including films and television shows that highlight diverse stories and perspectives.
In 2016, Henson released her memoir, “Around the Way Girl,” which became a best-seller. The book offers an intimate look into her life, sharing personal anecdotes, professional experiences, and insights into her journey in the entertainment industry. “Around the Way Girl” received positive reviews for its candidness and inspiring narrative, further showcasing Henson’s versatility as a creative professional.
Taraji P. Henson Net Worth
As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $35 million. This impressive figure reflects her success across multiple facets of the entertainment industry. Her wealth comes from various sources, including acting roles, producing ventures, endorsements, and other business activities.
Breakdown of Taraji P. Henson’s Earnings:
- Acting: Henson’s roles in high-profile films and television shows have contributed significantly to her net worth. Her work on “Empire,” in particular, brought substantial financial rewards due to the series’ popularity and her prominent role.
- Producing: Through her production company, TPH Entertainment, Henson has generated income from producing films and television projects. Her involvement in these ventures allows her to earn not only as an actress but also as a producer.
- Endorsements: Henson has been involved in various endorsement deals and partnerships with major brands. These endorsements add to her overall earnings and reflect her status as a prominent figure in the industry.
- Other Ventures: Henson’s success as an author, with her memoir “Around the Way Girl,” also contributes to her net worth. Additionally, she has been involved in other business activities and investments that have further increased her financial standing.
Personal Life: Age, Height, and Family
Taraji P. Henson is 53 years old as of 2024 and stands at 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall. Despite her busy professional life, Henson is known for her close-knit family and personal relationships.
Taraji P. Henson was previously engaged to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden. The couple announced their engagement in May 2018, but they later called off their engagement in 2020. Henson has been open about her experiences with relationships and personal growth, sharing her journey with her fans.
Henson has a son, Marcell Johnson, born in 1994. She is known for her strong bond with her son and often speaks about the importance of family in her life. Marcell has been a source of inspiration and support for Henson throughout her career.
Awards and Recognitions
Taraji P. Henson’s career has been marked by numerous awards and recognitions. Some of the notable awards she has received include:
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Drama for her role in “Empire” (2016).
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series for “Empire” (2016).
- Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actress in a Drama Series for “Empire” (2015).
In addition to these awards, Henson has been nominated for several other accolades, including Academy Awards and Emmy Awards, highlighting her exceptional talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Taraji P. Henson is also known for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy work. She is actively involved in various charitable organizations and causes, particularly those focused on mental health and education. In 2018, she founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named in honor of her late father. The foundation aims to provide support and resources for mental health services, particularly in underserved communities.
Henson’s advocacy work extends beyond mental health. She has been a vocal supporter of various social justice issues and has used her platform to raise awareness and promote positive change. Her commitment to philanthropy reflects her dedication to giving back to the community and addressing important societal issues.
Future Projects and Ongoing Influence
As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson continues to be a dynamic and influential figure in the entertainment industry. She remains active in her career, working on new projects and exploring new creative opportunities. Her upcoming projects include films and television shows that showcase her continued versatility and talent.
Henson’s influence extends beyond her professional achievements. She serves as a role model for aspiring actors and creatives, demonstrating the power of resilience, talent, and dedication. Her journey from a young aspiring actress to a successful and respected figure in Hollywood is a testament to her hard work and passion for her craft.
FAQ
What is Taraji P. Henson’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Taraji P. Henson’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $35 million. This wealth comes from her acting roles, producing ventures, endorsements, and other business activities.
How did Taraji P. Henson become famous?
Taraji P. Henson gained fame with her breakout role as Shug in the film “Hustle & Flow” (2005), which earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her role as Cookie Lyon in the TV series “Empire” (2015-2020) further solidified her status as a leading actress.
What are some of Taraji P. Henson’s most notable films and TV shows?
Taraji P. Henson is known for her roles in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (2008), “Baby Boy” (2001), and the television series “Empire” (2015-2020). She has also appeared in films like “Hidden Figures” (2016) and “What Men Want” (2019).
What is Taraji P. Henson’s educational background?
Taraji P. Henson attended Howard University, where she earned a degree in Theater Arts. Her education at Howard provided her with a strong foundation in acting and helped launch her career in the entertainment industry.
Is Taraji P. Henson married or in a relationship?
Taraji P. Henson was previously engaged to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden. The couple announced their engagement in 2018 but ended their engagement in 2020. Henson has been open about her experiences with relationships and personal growth.
Does Taraji P. Henson have any children?
Yes, Taraji P. Henson has a son named Marcell Johnson, born in 1994. She is known for her close relationship with her son and often speaks about the importance of family in her life.
What philanthropic efforts is Taraji P. Henson involved in?
Taraji P. Henson is actively involved in philanthropy through the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, which she founded in 2018. The foundation focuses on providing mental health support and resources, particularly in underserved communities. Henson is also an advocate for various social justice issues and uses her platform to raise awareness.
Conclusion
Taraji P. Henson’s journey in the entertainment industry is a story of remarkable success and perseverance. From her early beginnings in Washington, D.C., to becoming a celebrated actress, producer, and author, Henson has made significant contributions to film and television. Her net worth of approximately $35 million reflects her achievements and the diverse sources of her income.
With a career marked by acclaimed performances, producing ventures, and philanthropic efforts, Taraji P. Henson continues to inspire and impact audiences worldwide. Her story is a testament to her talent, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her craft and the causes she cares about.
