Who is Taraji P. Henson?
From working at the Pentagon to lighting up the big screen, Taraji P. Henson’s journey is one of grit, talent, and unshakable determination. With a career spanning decades, she has become one of Hollywood’s most respected and relatable stars. Whether she’s portraying a fierce mother, a music mogul, or a real-life NASA mathematician, Taraji brings depth and authenticity to every role she touches. Here’s everything you need to know about the powerhouse that is Taraji P. Henson.
Early Life and Background
Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Raised by her mother in a working-class household, her first name, Taraji, means “hope” in Swahili, and it was a fitting name for a girl destined to inspire millions. Though her parents divorced when she was young, Taraji’s family instilled in her a strong work ethic, and she credits her grandmother for encouraging her to dream big.
Education and Beginnings
Before Hollywood came calling, Taraji studied electrical engineering at North Carolina A&T State University. However, her passion for the arts couldn’t be ignored. She transferred to Howard University, where she studied theater while working as a secretary at the Pentagon and as a cruise-ship performer to pay her way through school. Her story is a true testament to hustle and heart.
Career Highlights and Awards
Taraji’s big break came in 2001 when she starred as Yvette in John Singleton’s film Baby Boy opposite Tyrese Gibson. Her raw, emotional performance captured attention and introduced her to a broader audience. From there, Taraji took on a variety of roles, each showcasing her incredible range from drama to comedy and everything in between.
Taraji’s career soared with unforgettable performances in films like Hustle & Flow (2005), where she sang the Oscar-winning song “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp.” She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), co-starring Brad Pitt.
Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in Fox’s hit series Empire (2015–2020) made her a household name and earned her a Golden Globe Award. Taraji also received critical acclaim for her role in Hidden Figures (2016), where she played real-life NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, inspiring countless young girls to pursue STEM careers.
In 2025, Taraji stars in Tyler Perry’s Straw, which quickly gained traction among the fans, securing a spot in Netflix’s Top 10 list during its opening week
Entrepreneurship and Advocacy
Beyond acting, Taraji is a vocal mental health advocate and launched the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her late father, to provide mental health support in the Black community. She’s also an entrepreneur with her own haircare line, TPH by Taraji, designed for textured hair.
Personal Life and Relationships
Taraji became a single mother at the age of 24 after the tragic death of her son’s father. Her son, Marcel, remains one of her greatest motivations. Despite the challenges, Taraji has never shied away from her truth and often speaks candidly about motherhood, love, loss, and healing. Taraji P. Henson was engaged to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden, but they called off their engagement in 2020.
Net Worth and Legacy
With a net worth estimated at $12 million as reported by CelebrityNetWorth in 2025, Taraji P. Henson has built a career marked by resilience, talent, and authenticity. She has broken barriers in an industry where Black actresses often go overlooked. From fierce film roles to heartfelt advocacy, she’s a shining example of what it means to turn pain into power.