Djimon Hounsou at a Glance
- Categories: Celebrities > Actors, Celebrities
- Net Worth: $4 Million
- Birthdate: Apr 24, 1964 (60 years old)
- Birthplace: Cotonou
- Gender: Male
- Profession: Actor, Model, Film Producer, Dancer, Voice Actor
- Nationality: United States of America
- Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
Djimon Hounsou’s Net Worth: From Runway to Hollywood Icon
Djimon Hounsou, the charismatic actor and former model, has captivated audiences worldwide with his commanding presence and versatile performances. From his humble beginnings in Benin to his rise as a sought-after Hollywood star, Hounsou’s journey is a testament to his talent and perseverance. This article delves into Djimon Hounsou’s net worth, career, and personal life, providing a comprehensive look at the man behind the iconic roles.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Born Djimon Gaston Hounsou on April 24, 1964, in Cotonou, Benin (formerly the Republic of Dahomey), Hounsou’s early life was marked by a significant move to France at the age of twelve. Leaving his homeland with his brother, Edmond, Hounsou faced challenges that included dropping out of school and a period of homelessness. However, fate intervened when he crossed paths with fashion designer Thierry Mugler, who recognized Hounsou’s potential and encouraged him to pursue modeling.
This encounter proved pivotal, launching Hounsou’s modeling career in Paris in 1987. His striking features and natural charisma quickly made him a sought-after presence in the fashion world. Three years later, in 1990, Hounsou made the move to the United States to further his career.

(Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic)
Acting Breakthrough and Rise to Stardom
While his modeling career flourished, Hounsou harbored ambitions beyond the runway. He transitioned into acting, making his film debut in 1990 with “Without You I’m Nothing.” However, it was his role in Steven Spielberg’s historical drama “Amistad” (1997) that truly catapulted him to international fame. Hounsou’s portrayal of Cinqué, a courageous leader of a slave rebellion, earned him critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe nomination. This performance solidified his status as a formidable actor and opened doors to numerous opportunities.
Prior to his film debut, Hounsou made several appearances in music videos. From 1989 to 1991, he showcased his talents in videos for popular artists like Paula Abdul (“Straight Up”), Madonna (“Express Yourself”), and Janet Jackson (“Love Will Never Do (Without You).” These early experiences honed his screen presence and paved the way for his successful transition to acting.
Major Film Roles and Franchises
Following the success of “Amistad,” Hounsou continued to deliver memorable performances in a string of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. He appeared in Ridley Scott’s “Gladiator” (2000), showcasing his ability to handle roles in large-scale productions. He further demonstrated his range with roles in “In America” (2003) and “Blood Diamond” (2006). His performance in “In America” earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making him the fourth African male in history to receive this honor.
Hounsou’s talent extends beyond dramatic roles; he has embraced the superhero genre with roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). He played Korath the Pursuer in “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014) and “Captain Marvel” (2019). In the DCEU, he portrayed the Fisherman King Ricou in “Aquaman” (2018) and the Wizard Shazam in “Shazam!” (2019). His versatility allows him to seamlessly transition between diverse roles, making him a valuable asset to various franchises.
His other notable film appearances include “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” (2003), “Constantine” (2005), “Eragon” (2006), “Furious 7” (2015), and “The Legend of Tarzan” (2016). These diverse roles further showcase his ability to adapt to different genres and project types.
Other Ventures: Voice Acting, Modeling, and Activism
Djimon Hounsou’s talents extend beyond acting. He has also made a significant contribution to the world of voice acting, lending his distinctive voice to animated features and television series. He voiced characters in “The Wild Thornberrys” (2000), “Black Panther” (2010), and “How to Train Your Dragon 2” (2014), demonstrating his versatility as a performer.
Even after achieving success in acting, Hounsou occasionally returned to his modeling roots. In 2007, he became the new underwear model for Calvin Klein, further expanding his brand. In addition to his creative endeavors, Hounsou is also an advocate for various causes. He served as a speaker at the United Nations Summit on Climate Change in September 2009, using his platform to raise awareness about environmental issues.
Personal Life and Real Estate
In his personal life, Djimon Hounsou was in a relationship with model and fashion designer Kimora Lee Simmons, beginning in 2007. They have one son, Kenzo Lee Hounsou, born in 2009. Although they never legally married in the United States, they participated in a traditional commitment ceremony in Benin in 2008. The couple’s relationship ended in November 2012.
Regarding real estate, in January 2020, Hounsou purchased a home in the Westchester neighborhood of Los Angeles for $2.1 million. In October 2023, he listed the property for rent at $11,750 per month, reflecting his diverse investments and financial acumen.
Conclusion
Djimon Hounsou’s journey from a young man in Benin to a celebrated Hollywood actor is an inspiration. His talent, versatility, and dedication have earned him recognition in the film industry. With his acting career, modeling work, and activism, Hounsou continues to impact audiences worldwide, solidifying his place as a cultural icon with a net worth that reflects his enduring success.