Taraji P. Henson, the celebrated actress, producer, and author, has built a remarkable career in Hollywood. Best known for her powerful performances in films and television, Henson has become a household name, earning critical acclaim and amassing significant wealth along the way. As of 2025, Taraji P Henson Net Worth is estimated to be around $25 million. This article explores the key milestones in her career, sources of income, and the factors contributing to her impressive net worth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., Taraji Penda Henson discovered her love for the arts at a young age. She attended Howard University, where she majored in theater while working two jobs to support her education. Henson’s early years were marked by determination and perseverance, which laid the foundation for her later success.
Her acting career began with minor roles in television shows such as Smart Guy and ER. However, her breakthrough came in 2001 with the film Baby Boy, where she starred opposite Tyrese Gibson. This role showcased her talent and opened doors for larger opportunities in Hollywood.
Career Highlights and Successes
1. Breakthrough Role in Hustle & Flow
In 2005, Henson gained widespread recognition for her role in Hustle & Flow, where she played Shug, a supportive partner to a struggling rapper. Her performance was widely praised, and she also showcased her singing talent on the Academy Award-winning song, It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp.
2. Acclaimed Performance in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
In 2008, Henson’s role as Queenie, a caregiver to the titular character in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actresses.
3. Iconic Role in Empire
Henson reached new heights of fame with her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in the hit TV series Empire (2015–2020). Cookie, a fierce and witty matriarch, became an iconic character, earning Henson multiple awards, including a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Series in 2016. Her work on Empire reportedly earned her up to $175,000 per episode at the height of the show’s popularity.
4. Starring Roles in Films
Taraji P. Henson has also starred in several successful films, including:
- Think Like a Man (2012)
- Hidden Figures (2016), where she played mathematician Katherine Johnson, contributing to a film that grossed over $235 million worldwide
- What Men Want (2019)
- Proud Mary (2018)
Sources of Income
- Acting: The bulk of Henson’s wealth comes from her acting roles in films and television. Her high-profile projects and consistent performances have made her a sought-after actress in Hollywood.
- Producing: In addition to acting, Henson has taken on producing roles, which add to her income and showcase her skills behind the camera.
- Endorsements: Taraji has collaborated with major brands like MAC Cosmetics, Olay, and American Express, further boosting her net worth.
- Books and Public Speaking: In 2016, Henson released her memoir, Around the Way Girl, which became a bestseller. She is also a prominent motivational speaker, advocating for mental health awareness and self-empowerment.
- Business Ventures: Henson launched her own haircare line, TPH by Taraji, focusing on scalp and hair health. This venture has been a commercial success, contributing significantly to her income.
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Awards and Recognition
Taraji P. Henson has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including:
- A Golden Globe Award
- Three Primetime Emmy nominations
- A Screen Actors Guild Award
Her contributions to the entertainment industry were also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2019.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Beyond her professional achievements, Henson is deeply committed to philanthropy. She founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her late father, to raise awareness about mental health issues, particularly in African American communities. Through her foundation, she has made significant strides in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.
Conclusion
With a career spanning over two decades, Taraji P. Henson has established herself as one of Hollywood’s most talented and influential figures. Her estimated $25 million net worth reflects her hard work, talent, and diverse ventures in the entertainment industry and beyond. From her unforgettable roles to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Henson continues to inspire audiences and prove that determination and talent can lead to extraordinary success.
FAQs About Taraji P. Henson’s Net Worth
1. What is Taraji P Henson Net Worth?
As of 2025, Taraji P. Henson’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million, earned through her acting career, endorsements, business ventures, and other projects.
2. How much did Taraji P. Henson earn for her role in Empire?
At the height of the show’s popularity, Taraji reportedly earned up to $175,000 per episode for her role as Cookie Lyon in the hit TV series Empire.
3. What are Taraji P. Henson’s major sources of income?
Her primary sources of income include:
- Acting in films and television.
- Brand endorsements with companies like MAC Cosmetics and Olay.
- Her bestselling memoir, Around the Way Girl.
- Her haircare line, TPH by Taraji.
- Producing and business ventures.
4. What is her most commercially successful film?
One of Taraji’s most successful films is Hidden Figures (2016), which grossed over $235 million worldwide and earned critical acclaim for its inspiring story.
5. Does Taraji P. Henson support any charitable causes?
Yes, Taraji founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, which focuses on raising awareness about mental health issues, particularly in African American communities. She is also an advocate for mental health and equality.
