Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson (also credited as Taraji Penda Henson and Taraji Henson) is an American screen artist known for dynamic, emotionally grounded performances across film and television. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., she trained in acting at Howard University, building a foundation that would carry her from early TV appearances to major studio features.

Henson’s film breakthrough arrived with Baby Boy (2001), opening the door to a run of standout roles. She drew acclaim as Shug in Hustle & Flow and later portrayed Queenie in David Fincher’s The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, a performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination and cemented her as a leading talent.

Her versatility is reflected in credits spanning drama, comedy, and genre projects, including Talk to Me, Four Brothers, Hurricane Season, I Can Do Bad All By Myself, Animal, and Muppets Haunted Mansion. Beyond acting, she has expanded into producing and music, shaping stories on both sides of the camera.

In recognition of her cultural impact, Time included Henson on its annual list of the 100 most influential people in 2016. She has also shared her journey in the memoir Around The Way Girl, offering a candid look at the work behind her success.