Taraji P Henson Net Worth
$12 Million
Taraji P. Henson’s Net Worth
Taraji P. Henson is an American actress and singer with a net worth of $12 million. Her career is a testament to her incredible talent, versatility, and perseverance. Henson made her film debut in “Streetwise” in 1998 and gained widespread recognition for her roles in “Hustle & Flow” (2005) and “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (2008), the latter earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. In 2016, she delivered a standout performance as mathematician Katherine Johnson in “Hidden Figures,” a film that achieved both box-office success and critical acclaim.
Henson’s television career is equally noteworthy. From 2011 to 2013, she co-starred in the CBS drama series “Person of Interest,” and from 2015 to 2020, she captivated audiences as Cookie Lyon in the Fox drama series “Empire.” Her role in “Empire” brought her widespread fame, a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama, and Primetime Emmy nominations in 2015 and 2016. She also received Emmy nominations for her performance in the Lifetime movie “Taken from Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story” (2011) and for a guest role in the ABC sitcom “Abbott Elementary” (2023).
In 2016, Time magazine named Henson one of the 100 most influential people in the world, highlighting her significant impact on and off the screen. That same year, she published her autobiography, “Around the Way Girl,” which became a New York Times bestseller. Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 2019, is a testament to her lasting influence in the entertainment industry.
Henson has also taken on roles as a producer and host for various holiday specials on Fox. Her filmography includes notable performances in “Proud Mary” (2018), “Tyler Perry’s Acrimony” (2018), “Ralph Breaks the Internet” (2018), and “What Men Want” (2019). Her portrayal of civil rights activist Ann Atwater in “The Best of Enemies” (2019) further demonstrated her ability to take on challenging and transformative roles.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
| Real Name | Taraji Penda Henson |
| Popular Name | Taraji P. Henson |
| Gender | Female |
| Birth Date | September 11, 1970 |
| Age | 53 |
| Parents | Boris Henson and Bernice Gordon |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | Washington D.C., United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Education | Howard University, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Oxon Hill High School |
| Marital Status | Single |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Wife/Spouse | N/A |
| Children | One son, Marcell |
| Dating | Kelvin Hayden (2018 – 2020) |
| Net Worth | $12 million |
| Source of Wealth | Acting, endorsements, and investments |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
Who Is Taraji P. Henson?
Taraji Penda Henson, an iconic American actress, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known for her versatility, she showcased her talent alongside Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith in the 2010 remake of “The Karate Kid” and made a memorable appearance in the action comedy “Date Night.”
Henson’s impact extends beyond film; she has also made significant contributions to television. She has graced TV screens in acclaimed series such as “The Division,” “Boston Legal,” and “Eli Stone,” proving her wide-ranging acting abilities.
Throughout her illustrious career, Henson has garnered numerous accolades and awards, solidifying her status as an extraordinary talent with a lasting influence on the entertainment world.
Taraji Penda Henson Career
After graduating from Howard University, Taraji P. Henson quickly made her mark as an actress with her breakout role in the 2001 film “Baby Boy” alongside Tyrese Gibson. This role catapulted her into the spotlight, and she continued her rise to fame with a role in the 2005 film “Hustle & Flow,” where she played the love interest of the lead character. The film garnered multiple awards and further established Henson’s career.
In 2008, Henson received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.” That same year, she appeared in Tyler Perry’s “The Family That Preys,” followed by a role in “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” in 2009. Her career continued to thrive with her appearance in the 2010 remake of “The Karate Kid,” a commercial success despite mixed reviews.
Henson then took on the central role in “Taken From Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story,” earning an Emmy Award for her performance. In 2012, she joined the cast of “Act Like A Lady, Think Like A Man,” and returned for its sequel in 2014. One of Henson’s most celebrated films, “Hidden Figures,” was released in 2016 and received numerous award nominations. In 2018, she starred in “Proud Mary” and “Acrimony,” and lent her voice to Disney’s “Ralph Breaks The Internet.” The following year, she headlined “What Men Want,” a reboot of the Mel Gibson film “What Women Want.”
Throughout her career, Henson has also made significant contributions to television. She has guest-starred in shows like “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and “House,” and had recurring roles in series such as “The Division” and “Boston Legal.” Her most notable television role came in 2015 with the critically acclaimed series “Empire,” where she played Cookie Lyon. This role brought her widespread recognition and a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama.
Taraji P. Henson’s diverse body of work in both film and television showcases her incredible talent and has cemented her status as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.
Taraji Penda Henson Acting
Here are some of the popular TV shows and movies in which Taraji P. Henson has appeared:
| Film/TV show | Role | Year |
| Sister, Sister | Briana | 1997 |
| Smart Guy | Leslie | 1997–1998 |
| The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle | Left-Wing Student | 2000 |
| Strong Medicine | Crystal | 2000 |
| Baby Boy | Yvette | 2001 |
| The Division | Inspector Raina Washington | 2002–2004 |
| Hustle & Flow | Shug | 2005 |
| Common: Testify | Mrs. Washington | 2005 |
| Half & Half | Gabrielle | 2005 |
| CSI: Crime Scene Investigation | Christina | 2006 |
| Boston Legal | Whitney Rome | 2007–2008 |
| Eli Stone | Angela Scott | 2008 |
| The Curious Case of Benjamin Button | Queenie | 2008 |
| Hurricane Season | Dayna Collins | 2009 |
| The Cleveland Show | Chanel | 2010 |
| Taken from Me: The Tiffany Rubin Story | Tiffany Rubin | 2011 |
| The Good Doctor | Nurse Theresa | 2011 |
| Think Like a Man Too | Lauren | 2014 |
| Proud Mary: If Looks Could Kill | Mary | 2018 |
| The Best of Enemies | Ann Atwater | 2019 |
| Empire | Cookie Lyon | 2015–2020 |
| The Color Purple | Shug Avery | 2023 |
| PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie | Victoria Vance (voice) | 2023 |
| Abbott Elementary | Vanetta | 2023–2024 |
Film production
As a film producer, she has worked on notable projects highlighted below.
| Film/TV show | Year |
| Seasons of Love | 2014 |
| No Good Deed | 2014 |
| Taraji and Terrence’s White Hot Holidays | 2015 |
| Taraji’s White Hot Holidays | 2016 |
| Proud Mary | 2018 |
| What Men Want | 2019 |
| Peace of Mind with Taraji | 2020–2021 |
| Going to Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project | 2023 |
Taraji P. Henson Education
After graduating from Oxon Hill High School in 1988, Taraji P. Henson embarked on her college journey. Initially, she enrolled at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, aiming for a degree in electrical engineering. However, she faced challenges with her science courses and decided to change her path.
Recognizing her passion for the performing arts, Taraji made the pivotal decision to transfer to Howard University. There, she focused on studying theater, honing her skills in acting, singing, and dancing. Her dedication and talent paid off when she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1995.
During her time at Howard University, Taraji’s remarkable abilities caught the attention of her peers and professors, earning her the prestigious Triple Threat Award. This award acknowledged her creativity and served as a testament to her hard work and commitment to her craft.
Taraji P. Henson, who celebrated her 52nd birthday in 2023, was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Raised in a modest working-class family, she developed a strong work ethic and a sense of resilience. As a Virgo, Taraji takes pride in her African American heritage and her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated actress.
Taraji P. Henson Family
Henson is a pillar of strength for her family, especially for her son Marcell Johnson, who has pursued a career in entertainment and modeling. Her grandmother, Patsy Ballard, has also played a significant role throughout her life, greatly influencing her upbringing.
In 2006, Henson faced the tragic loss of her father, Boris Lawrence Henson, due to liver disease. His memory and the profound impact he had on her life inspired her to establish the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in 2018. This non-profit organization reflects Henson’s dedication to making a positive difference in the community by providing mental health resources specifically tailored for African Americans.
Taraji Penda Henson Personal Life
While in college, Taraji P. Henson discovered she was pregnant and gave birth to her son Marcell in 1994. Marcell’s father is William LaMarr Johnson, Henson’s high school sweetheart.
Tragically, Henson’s life took a difficult turn in 2003 when William LaMarr Johnson was murdered.
Henson also faced challenges in her personal life when her engagement to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden was called off in May 2018. She revealed the end of their engagement during an episode of The Breakfast Club on October 19, 2020.
Taraji P Henson’s Son
When Taraji P. Henson was a junior in college, she received life-changing news: she was pregnant. Despite the challenges she faced, she remained determined to continue her education. In 1994, Taraji gave birth to her son, Marcell Johnson, marking the beginning of a new chapter where she balanced motherhood with her growing career.
Inspired by his mother’s passion and resilience, Marcell Johnson has also pursued a career in Hollywood. He has showcased his acting talent in various films and television shows, establishing himself as a promising actor. His film credits include roles in “A Girl Like Her,” a poignant drama exploring bullying effects, “Misled,” a thriller delving into complex relationships, and “Needlestick,” a gripping medical thriller. Additionally, Marcell has appeared in the TV series “Detroiters,” a comedy following friends navigating the advertising world.
Marcell’s achievements in entertainment highlight his dedication and talent, reflecting the same perseverance seen in his mother’s career. Together, Taraji and Marcell embody the importance of pursuing passions despite life’s obstacles, showing the power of resilience and determination.
Taraji Penda Henson Real Estate
In May 2015, Taraji P. Henson made a $1.5 million investment in a luxurious condo located in Chicago, marking her entry into the city’s real estate market. This move was part of her strategy to diversify her property portfolio. After owning the condo for three years, she decided to sell it in 2018, achieving a sale price close to her initial purchase price. This transaction underscored the property’s stability and resilience in a fluctuating market.
Despite selling the first unit, Taraji maintained her interest in Chicago real estate. In 2017, she purchased another condo in the same building for $1.9 million, reflecting her confidence in the building’s value and the potential of its location for long-term investment.
In addition to her ventures in Chicago, Taraji has also made significant real estate investments in Los Angeles. Her first purchase in LA was a home in Glendale in 2002, bought for $431,000. This early investment provided her with a foothold in LA’s competitive real estate market, establishing a solid base in the city.
In 2016, Taraji expanded her real estate holdings with the acquisition of a private mansion in the Hollywood Hills for $6.45 million. This property epitomizes luxury, offering exclusive privacy and breathtaking views. It serves as a serene retreat and a reflection of her success and refined taste.
Through her savvy real estate investments in prime locations like Chicago and Los Angeles, Taraji P. Henson has demonstrated not only financial acumen but also a knack for selecting properties that enhance her lifestyle in the entertainment industry. Her diverse portfolio blends stability, strategic vision, and luxury, providing both sound investments and personal sanctuaries.
Taraji P. Henson Achievements And Awards
Henson’s illustrious acting career has earned her a wealth of awards and honors, showcasing both her exceptional talent and profound impact on the entertainment industry. Her impressive list of achievements includes a Golden Globe Award, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Critics’ Choice Award, a BET Award, a NAACP Image Award, a Black Reel Award, an MTV Movie Award, a Teen Choice Award, and a People’s Choice Award, among others.
Beyond accolades, Henson’s remarkable contributions have been recognized with an Academy Award nomination, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and two Grammy Awards, highlighting her versatility and breadth as an artist.
In 2019, Henson’s esteemed career was further honored with a star on the prestigious Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing her enduring legacy in entertainment. Her influence extends globally, as evidenced by her inclusion in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2016, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the industry.
Taraji Penda Henson Future Prospects
At 53 years old, Taraji P. Henson continues to expand her influence in Hollywood with upcoming projects like “Till” and “Murder at Yellowstone City.” Her financial savvy, coupled with her exceptional acting skills, ensures the ongoing growth of her net worth, solidifying her status as a powerhouse in both finance and the arts, as well as a philanthropic leader in Hollywood.
Taraji P. Henson’s projected net worth for 2024 reflects her enduring impact both on and off the screen. Her journey to a net worth of $30 million is a testament to her groundbreaking career. It showcases her remarkable talent, business acumen, and steadfast dedication to using her platform for positive change, making her one of the most influential figures in today’s entertainment industry.
Social Media
Henson is also very active on many social media platforms beyond Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok. As her fame grows, she thrills her followers by sharing glimpses of her life, including moments from her career, time spent with family and friends, travels, fashion choices, and much more.
Her posts not only highlight her talent, beauty, and personality but also serve as a platform for her passion projects, brands, and causes. This approach strengthens her connection with her loyal fans and keeps them engaged.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Taraji P. Henson’s remarkable career and influence in the entertainment industry are evident through her diverse roles in film and television, numerous awards, and her impact as a philanthropist. With a net worth of $12 million, she continues to captivate audiences with her talent and versatility. Henson’s commitment to her craft, her passion projects, and her active presence on social media platforms further solidify her connection with her fans and her status as a powerhouse in Hollywood. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated actress and influential figure is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and enduring legacy.
