Oprah Winfrey, one of the most influential figures in Hollywood, is under fire as several Black actresses, including Taraji P. Henson, have called her out for unfair compensation. This issue has gained significant traction, with heavyweights like 50 Cent and Denzel Washington backing the actresses, adding pressure to the situation.
Taraji P. Henson, who recently starred in The Color Purple (2023), a musical drama produced by Oprah, has been particularly vocal. The film, a powerful story about the struggles of a Black woman in the early 1900s South, is the second adaptation of Alice Walker’s novel, with Oprah herself starring in the 1985 version. Fans were excited about the new version, but behind the scenes, tensions were brewing.
The controversy came to a head when Taraji appeared on Gail King’s SiriusXM radio show. During the interview, Gail, Oprah’s close friend, asked Taraji if she was considering leaving acting. Taraji’s emotional response, covering her face and tearing up, hinted at deeper issues. Observers noted her apparent unhappiness during promotional events for The Color Purple, leading to speculation that all was not well between her and Oprah.
Rumors suggest that the tension stems from Oprah not compensating Taraji fairly, leading to a confrontation on set. This has shocked many, as Oprah is known for her warmth and generosity. However, this incident has highlighted the harsh realities of Hollywood, where, as the saying goes, “Not all that glitters is gold.”
Taraji didn’t stay silent. In another interview, she expressed frustration about the lack of financial support for Black actors, revealing that she had heard claims that their stories don’t translate well overseas, impacting their pay. This isn’t the first time Taraji has spoken out about unfair pay. In 2019, she revealed that she had to negotiate her salary for The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, ultimately securing $150,000, still far short of the $500,000 she initially sought.
Oprah’s alleged discriminatory practices have shocked many, especially considering her status as a major figure in the Black community. Taraji’s co-stars, like Fantasia Barrino and Halle Bailey, have also reportedly been underpaid. Thankfully, figures like Denzel Washington and 50 Cent are standing up for these actresses, urging Hollywood to treat Black artists fairly. Their support highlights a growing movement to hold powerful industry figures accountable and ensure that all artists receive the recognition and compensation they deserve.
