Djimon Hounsou – Height, Biography, and Career Overview

How Tall is Djimon Hounsou and What Are His Key Biographical Details?

Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor and former model born on April 24, 1964, in Cotonou, Benin. As of 2026, he is 62 years old. His career spans dramatic films, major franchises, and advocacy work, making him one of the most recognizable African-born actors in Hollywood.

When and Where Was Djimon Hounsou Born?

Hounsou was born in Cotonou, Benin, to Albertine and Pierre Hounsou. He moved to Lyon, France, at age 13, where he pursued his education before entering modeling and acting. His early transition from West Africa to Europe shaped both his worldview and his path into the entertainment industry.

How Did Djimon Hounsou Start His Acting Career?

Before landing film roles, Hounsou worked as a model in Paris and appeared in music videos for artists such as Madonna and Paula Abdul. His film debut came in Without You I’m Nothing in 1990. He first gained major attention through Amistad (1997), directed by Steven Spielberg, which established him in Hollywood and opened the door to more substantial dramatic roles.

What Are Djimon Hounsou’s Most Famous Movies?

Hounsou built a filmography that balances prestige dramas with major franchise appearances. His most well-known films include Amistad, In America, Gladiator, Blood Diamond, and his MCU role as Korath the Pursuer.

Which Films Earned Djimon Hounsou Oscar Nominations?

He received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor. The first was for In America (2002), directed by Jim Sheridan. The second came for Blood Diamond (2006), opposite Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Connelly. Despite the recognition, he has not yet won an Oscar.

What Are His Marvel Cinematic Universe Roles?

Hounsou plays Korath the Pursuer, a character tied to the Kree alien race. He first appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) and reprised the role in Captain Marvel (2019). He also voiced the character in the animated series What If…?. His Korath appearances are often confused between the two films, particularly regarding the extent of his screen time in each.

What Other Notable Projects Has He Appeared In?

Hounsou’s career includes a range of supporting and leading roles. He appeared in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator as Juba, a role that remains a fan favorite. He also worked in Shazam! alongside the DC universe, playing the Wizard. His ability to move between major franchises is notable, though it sometimes leads to confusion about which cinematic universe he belongs to.

Who Is Djimon Hounsou Married To and Does He Have Children?

Hounsou was in a relationship with model and fashion designer Kimora Lee Simmons. Sources describe a traditional commitment ceremony in Benin in 2008, but the couple did not legally marry in the U.S. Their relationship ended in 2012.

How Many Children Does Djimon Hounsou Have?

He has one son, Kenzo Lee Hounsou, born in 2009 during his relationship with Simmons. Limited public information is available about any other children, and the sources provided do not confirm additional offspring.

Is Djimon Hounsou Related to Lee Majdoub?

No, they are not related. Lee Majdoub is a Canadian actor of Lebanese descent, while Hounsou is from Benin. The confusion likely stems from both being actors of non-European heritage who appear in major franchises. Majdoub is known for his role in the Sonic the Hedgehog films, while Hounsou is associated with Marvel and historical dramas. Their backgrounds are distinct, and there is no family connection.

What Is Djimon Hounsou’s Net Worth?

The provided sources do not include a reliable, sourced net-worth figure for Hounsou. While he has had a long career in major films and franchises, no exact financial figure is verifiable from the research materials. His two Oscar nominations and consistent work in high-profile projects suggest financial stability, but a precise number is not available.

What Is the Djimon Hounsou Foundation?

Hounsou is the founder of the Djimon Hounsou Foundation, a nonprofit organization. The foundation aims to reconnect the African Diaspora with the motherland and combat modern-day slavery and human trafficking. This advocacy work is separate from his acting career and reflects his commitment to issues affecting Africa and its people.

What Causes Does the Foundation Support?

The foundation focuses on two primary areas: fostering connections between people of African descent and the continent, and addressing human trafficking and modern slavery. These efforts are aligned with Hounsou’s personal background as a Beninese native who achieved international success.

Has Djimon Hounsou Won an Oscar?

No, he has been nominated twice but has not yet won. His nominations came for In America and Blood Diamond in the Best Supporting Actor category. The lack of a win despite multiple nominations has been a topic of discussion, particularly regarding representation in Hollywood.

Is Djimon Hounsou French?

Hounsou is Beninese-American. He moved to Lyon, France, at age 13 and spent part of his early life there, which explains why some sources associate him with France. However, he was born in Cotonou, Benin, and holds Beninese heritage. His American citizenship status is part of his bi-national background, though specifics on his nationality are not fully detailed in the provided sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About Djimon Hounsou