Taraji P. Henson shines in the 2023 movie adaptation of "The Color Purple" as Shug Avery, showcasing her acting and singing talents, Her portrayal of the jazz singer adds a captivating musical dimension to this iconic film.Who is Taraji P Henson?
Taraji P. Henson is an accomplished American actress born on September 11, 1970. Known for her versatility, she has received notable awards, including a Golden Globe, and nominations for an Academy Award and Primetime Emmy Awards. Henson's acting career began with her film debut in "Streetwise" (1998), but she gained widespread recognition for roles in "Hustle & Flow" (2005) and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008).
Article continues below advertisementHer portrayal of Katherine Johnson in "Hidden Figures" (2016) showcased her talent in diverse roles. Henson also made a mark in television, starring in "Person of Interest" and earning a Golden Globe for her role as Cookie Lyon in "Empire" (2015-2020). Beyond acting, she has engaged in singing, philanthropy, and advocacy for causes like PETA and mental health awareness.
Born September 11, 1970 Birthplace Washington, D.C., U.S. Age 53 Education North Carolina A&T State University, Howard University (BFA) Occupation Actress Years Active 1992–present Children 1 (Son - Marcell, born in 1994)
Did Taraji P Henson Sing in the Color Purple?
Yes, Taraji P. Henson sang in "The Color Purple." In the 2023 movie adaptation of Alice Walker's novel, Henson takes on the role of Shug Avery, a jazz singer. Shug is a pivotal character in the story, and her musical performances are integral to the film. Despite initially declining the role during the Broadway run due to concerns about her vocal endurance, fate brought Henson back to portray Shug in the movie.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementIn the film, Henson showcases her singing talent, delivering memorable musical moments that contribute to the overall success of the movie. Her performance as Shug not only involves acting but also includes displaying her vocal abilities, adding depth to the character and enriching the musical aspect of "The Color Purple."
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C1PjyzeguNS/Taraji P Henson Early Life
Taraji P. Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. She grew up with her mother, Bernice, who worked as a corporate manager, and her father, Boris Lawrence Henson, a janitor and metal fabricator. Henson often speaks about her maternal grandmother's influence, especially during the Academy Awards when her grandmother accompanied her.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementHer first and middle names, Taraji ("hope") and Penda ("love"), are of Swahili origin. Henson graduated from Oxon Hill High School in 1988 and initially pursued electrical engineering at North Carolina A&T State University before transferring to Howard University for drama.
To support her studies, she worked as a secretary at The Pentagon in the mornings and as a singing-dancing waitress on a dinner-cruise ship in the evenings. Henson's journey into acting began with background roles, and her breakout came with the 2001 film "Baby Boy."
How Much Did Taraji Make for the Color Purple?
Taraji P. Henson did not disclose the specific amount she was offered or earned for her role in "The Color Purple." However, she candidly discussed the challenging landscape for Black women in Hollywood, expressing her frustration with the recurring issue of pay disparity.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementHenson highlighted her reluctance to accept the role if it meant perpetuating inequities for fellow Black actresses like Fantasia Barrino, Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi. She mentioned the lack of a raise since her 2018 film "Proud Mary" and the ongoing struggle for fair compensation.
While the exact figure for her salary in "The Color Purple" remains undisclosed, Henson's remarks underscore the broader industry challenges related to pay equality for Black women.
Taraji P Henson Career
Taraji P. Henson is an accomplished American actress with a career spanning several decades. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., she studied drama at Howard University after starting at North Carolina A&T State University.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementHenson gained recognition with her film debut in "Streetwise" (1998) and garnered acclaim for her roles in "Hustle & Flow" (2005) and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008), earning an Academy Award nomination. She further showcased her versatility in movies like "Hidden Figures" (2016) and "What Men Want" (2019).
Notably, Henson achieved widespread fame as Cookie Lyon in the TV series "Empire" (2015–2020), winning a Golden Globe. Throughout her career, she has been an advocate for equal pay and has received numerous awards for her outstanding contributions to film and television.
Taraji P Henson Filmography
Year Title Role 1998 Streetwise Tammy 2000 The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle Left-Wing Student 2001 All or Nothing Kiko 2001 Baby Boy Yvette 2002 Book of Love Date #4/Ghetto Girl 2004 Hair Show Tiffany 2005 Hustle & Flow Shug 2005 Four Brothers Camille Mercer 2005 Animal Ramona 2006 Something New Nedra 2006 Smokin' Aces Sharice Watters 2007 Talk to Me Vernell Watson 2008 The Family That Preys Pam Evans 2008 The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Queenie
Television
Year Title Role 1997 The Parent 'Hood Aida 1997 Sister, Sister Briana 1997-98 Smart Guy Monique/Leslie 1998 ER Patrice Robbins/Elan 1998-99 Felicity R.A. #2/Art Student 1999 Pacific Blue Rhonda 2000 Strong Medicine Crystal 2001 Murder She Wrote: The Last Free Man Bess Pinckney 2002-04 The Division Inspector Raina Washington
Taraji P Henson Age
Taraji P. Henson was born on September 11, 1970, which makes her 53 years old as of 2023. The accomplished actress, born in Washington, D.C., has had a successful career spanning several decades. Henson gained widespread recognition for her roles in both film and television, earning acclaim and numerous awards for her performances.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementBeyond acting, she has also ventured into singing and has been involved in various charitable and advocacy initiatives. Known for her talent, resilience, and advocacy for equal pay in the entertainment industry, Taraji P. Henson continues to be a prominent figure in the world of entertainment and a role model for aspiring actors, particularly women and people of color.
Taraji P Henson Net Worth
As of December 2023, Taraji P. Henson's net worth is estimated to be $12 million. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., Henson is an accomplished American actress and singer. She gained recognition for her roles in films such as "Hustle & Flow" (2005) and "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" (2008), earning an Academy Award nomination.
Article continues below advertisementArticle continues below advertisementHenson also achieved widespread fame for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the television series "Empire" (2015–2020). Beyond acting, she has been an advocate for pay equity in Hollywood. Despite facing challenges and disparities, Henson's career has been marked by versatility and talent, earning her numerous accolades. Her net worth reflects her success in the entertainment industry.
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Did Taraji P Henson Sing In The Color Purple? - FAQs
1. Did Taraji P Henson Sing In The Color Purple?Yes, Taraji P. Henson sang in "The Color Purple," displaying her vocal talents as she portrayed the character Shug Avery in the 2023 movie adaptation.
Taraji P. Henson is an American actress born on September 11, 1970, known for her versatile roles in films like "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" and the TV series "Empire."
3. Why did Taraji almost walk away from "The Color Purple"?Taraji considered leaving "The Color Purple" due to pay disparity, expressing concerns about the unequal treatment of Black women in the industry and advocating for fair compensation.
4. How much did Taraji make for "The Color Purple"?The specific amount Taraji earned for "The Color Purple" is not disclosed, but she has been vocal about salary challenges in Hollywood throughout her career.
5. What is Taraji P. Henson's net worth?As of 2023, Taraji P. Henson's net worth is estimated to be $12 million, earned through her successful acting and singing career.
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