Djimon Hounsou

Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor known for his work in film, television, and advocacy. Hounsou began his career in Paris, where a meeting with a photographer led to an introduction to fashion designer Thierry Mugler, who encouraged him to pursue modeling. He established himself in the fashion industry, appearing in music videos directed by Herb Ritts and David Fincher, before making his film debut in "Without You I'm Nothing."

Hounsou gained recognition for his portrayal of Joseph Cinqué in Steven Spielberg's "Amistad," earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor and a Best Actor award from the NAACP Image Awards. He was part of the ensemble cast of Ridley Scott's "Gladiator," which received the Academy Award for Best Picture and a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. In "In America," Hounsou played an artist living with AIDS, a role that earned him an Independent Spirit Award and another SAG Award nomination. His performance in Edward Zwick's "Blood Diamond" alongside Leonardo DiCaprio led to a second Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor, as well as wins from the NAACP Image Awards and the National Board of Review.

Hounsou has appeared in several major film franchises. He provided the voice for a character in DreamWorks Animation's "How to Train Your Dragon 2" and plays Korath in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, appearing in "Guardians of the Galaxy," "Captain Marvel," and "What If…?" In the DC Extended Universe, he portrays the Fisherman King in "Aquaman" and the wizard Shazam in "Shazam!," "Black Adam," and "Shazam! Fury of the Gods." His filmography also includes roles in "A Quiet Place: Day One" and Zack Snyder's "Rebel Moon."

Hounsou is among the few African actors to achieve sustained success in Hollywood, with two Oscar nominations contributing to increased visibility for African artists in the film industry. He made his directorial debut with the documentary "In Search of Voodoo: Roots to Heaven." Hounsou co-founded Fanaticus Media Group, focusing on international co-productions, diaspora-centered distribution, and infrastructure development across Africa. The company's first feature, "Calabash," screened in Berlin as part of the AfroBerlin program, where Hounsou served as a guest speaker.

Beyond his work in entertainment, Hounsou has addressed the United Nations General Assembly on climate change, appeared before the US Senate regarding the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act, and participated in hearings for the International Arms Ban Treaty. He established the Djimon Hounsou Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reconnecting the African Diaspora with Africa. Hounsou's career encompasses acting, directing, producing, and advocacy, with a focus on amplifying African stories and voices in global media.