Taraji Henson is a renowned actress, author, and philanthropist. She has earned numerous awards and nominations for her exceptional work over the years. From humble beginnings, Henson has become an iconic figure in the entertainment industry and a role model for many young men and women aspiring to succeed in their respective fields.
The talented actress was born in Southeast Washington, D.C. on September 11, 1970. Despite facing several challenges, including financial instability and domestic violence, Henson displayed an early interest in the performing arts. She honed her acting skills at Howard University in Washington, D.C. and later pursued a successful career in Hollywood.
Henson's first major breakthrough was her role as Yvette in the film "Baby Boy," directed by John Singleton. This performance was followed by her portrayal of Shug in Hustle & Flow, which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Henson's most notable role to date is that of Cookie Lyon in the TV drama series "Empire," which made her a household name.
Aside from her thriving acting career, Henson is also an advocate for mental health awareness and an author of the New York Times bestseller "Around the Way Girl," a memoir that chronicles her life story and career journey. She is also involved in numerous charitable organizations that empower women and support people living with HIV/AIDS.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Taraji Henson's biography, including information on her age, height, physical appearance, and net worth. Read on to learn more about this remarkable woman's journey to the top!
Taraji Henson: A Comprehensive Biography
Taraji Henson is an American actress and author who has graced the screens with her stunning acting skills for over two decades. She was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington D.C. to Boris Henson and Bernice Gordon.
Henson began her acting career in the late 1990s and rose to fame in 2005 for her role in the independent film, "Hustle and Flow." She has since then appeared in several other movies and TV shows, including the hit series "Empire," which earned her a Golden Globe award for Best Actress in a TV Drama.
Henson is also a New York Times bestselling author, having written her memoir "Around the Way Girl" in 2016. The book chronicles her childhood, career struggles, and the success she has achieved as an actress.
In addition to her acting career, Henson is a philanthropist and has been actively involved in various charitable organizations such as the PETA organization and the charitable organization Saving Our Daughters.
As of 2021, Taraji Henson's net worth is estimated to be around $25 million, and she continues to be an inspiration and role model for aspiring actors worldwide.
Early Life and Career
Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970 in Washington, D.C. to Boris Lawrence Henson and Bernice Gordon. She grew up in a rough neighbourhood, but her parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a love for the arts.
Henson attended Howard University where she studied drama and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1995. During her time at the university, she discovered her passion for acting and decided to pursue it as a career.
After graduating, Henson worked as a secretary at the Pentagon and as a singing and dancing waitress on a dinner cruise ship. She also appeared in several local theatre productions before moving to Los Angeles in 1996 to pursue a career in acting full-time.
Her first television role came in 1997, when she appeared in an episode of the sitcom "Smart Guy". She then went on to guest star in several other popular television shows, including "Sister, Sister", "ER", and "The Division".
In 2001, Henson made her film debut in the independent drama "Streetwise". However, it was her role as Shug in the critically acclaimed film "Hustle & Flow" that brought her widespread recognition and earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 2006.
Since then, Henson has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", "Person of Interest", and "Empire". She has won several awards for her acting, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series - Drama for her role as Cookie Lyon in "Empire".
Breakthrough Role in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button"
Taraji Henson's breakout role came in the critically acclaimed film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," directed by David Fincher and starring Brad Pitt. Henson played the role of Queenie, the caretaker of Benjamin Button, a man who ages in reverse. Her performance earned her widespread praise and recognition, including a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Henson's portrayal of Queenie was praised for its warmth, depth, and authenticity. She brought a real humanity to the character, making her more than just a supporting player. Queenie was a complex, fully realized character, and Henson's performance brought her to life in a way that few actors could have.
- Henson's breakthrough role was in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button."
- She played the role of Queenie, the caretaker of the aging-reversing Benjamin Button.
- Henson's performance earned her a nomination for a Screen Actors Guild Award.
- Her portrayal of Queenie was praised for its warmth, depth, and authenticity.
- Henson brought a real humanity to the character, making her more than just a supporting player.
Empire and Other TV and Film Projects
Taraji Henson is one of the most sought-after actresses in Hollywood and has a string of successful projects to her name. One of her biggest TV shows was "Empire," where she starred as Cookie Lyon, the ex-wife of a hip-hop mogul. The show premiered in 2015 and ran for six seasons, becoming a cultural phenomenon and garnering Henson numerous nominations and awards.
Aside from "Empire," Henson has appeared in several other popular TV shows such as "Person of Interest," "Boston Legal," and "Soul Food." In 2019, she starred in the critically acclaimed limited series "When They See Us," which tells the story of the Central Park Five.
On the film front, Henson has also made a name for herself as a versatile and talented actress. She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Queenie in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." Other notable film projects include "Hidden Figures," "Proud Mary," and "The Best of Enemies."
- Empire: A TV show where Taraji Henson starred as Cookie Lyon, the ex-wife of a hip-hop mogul, which became a cultural phenomenon.
- When They See Us: A limited series that Henson starred in, telling the story of the Central Park Five.
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: A film where Henson played the role of Queenie, which led to an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
- Hidden Figures: Another notable film project that Henson starred in, telling the story of African-American female mathematicians working at NASA during the 1960s.
Age, Height, Figure, and Other Personal Details
Age
Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, which makes her currently 51 years old.
Height
Standing at 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m) tall, Taraji Henson has a petite and attractive stature.
Figure
Taraji Henson is known for her stunning figure and beautiful curves. She maintains her physique through a combination of healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
Other Personal Details
- Birthplace - Washington, D.C., United States
- Education - she attended Oxon Hill High School, and later attended Howard University where she studied drama.
- Family - Taraji Henson is the daughter of Boris Lawrence Henson and Bernice Gordon.
- Relationships - Henson was engaged to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden before they broke up in 2020.
- Net Worth - Taraji Henson is estimated to have a net worth of around $25 million, thanks to her successful acting career and other business ventures.
| Height | Age | Figure |
|---|---|---|
| 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m) | 51 years old | Curvy |
Overall, Taraji Penda Henson's personal details showcase her incredible talent, beauty, and strong work ethic. She continues to inspire many people around the world with her hard work and determination.
Net Worth and Philanthropy
Taraji Henson's success as an actress has brought her a considerable net worth. As of 2021, her estimated net worth is around $25 million. This wealth has allowed her to contribute to various philanthropic causes.
One of her notable contributions is her work as a spokesperson for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This organization focuses on providing resources and support for those affected by suicide and mental health issues. Henson has personally experienced the devastating effects of suicide, as her own father suffered from it. Her involvement in the organization has helped raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with mental health.
In addition, Henson has supported organizations that promote the empowerment of women and children. She has worked with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to grant wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses. Henson is also a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement and has donated to social justice organizations such as the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund.
Despite her success, Henson remains humble and continues to give back to her community. Through her philanthropic efforts, she has made a positive impact on many lives and has become an inspiration for others to do the same.
FAQ
What is Taraji Henson's age?
Taraji Henson was born on September 11, 1970, and as of 2021, she is 51 years old.
What is Taraji Henson's height?
Taraji Henson is 5 feet 4 inches (162.5 cm) tall.
What is Taraji Henson's net worth?
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Taraji Henson's net worth is estimated to be $25 million.
What are some of Taraji Henson's notable roles?
Taraji Henson is best known for her role as Cookie Lyon in the TV series "Empire". She has also starred in movies such as "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", "Hidden Figures", and "Proud Mary".
What is Taraji Henson's figure?
Taraji Henson's figure is often described as curvy and hourglass-shaped. She has a bust-waist-hip measurement of 34-24-34 inches (86-61-86 cm).
