Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou, celebrated for his powerful performances in films such as Gladiator and Blood Diamond, has recently opened up about his ongoing financial struggles despite over two decades in the film industry.

Speaking on CNN’s African Voices Changemakers, Hounsou disclosed that he still has a lot of financial difficulties, which he blames on Hollywood’s low pay.

I continue to struggle to earn a living. I’ve been making movies for more than 20 years, and despite my two Oscar nominations and numerous successful productions, I’m still having financial difficulties. Despite having a long career, Hounsou clarified, “I’m definitely underpaid,” expressing his anger.

Hounsou talked about his encounters with racism in Hollywood as well. He recalled that despite winning a Golden Globe, he was not nominated for an Academy Award. “They disregarded me for the Oscars because they believed that I had just stepped off the boat and onto the streets, even though I was nominated for the Golden Globe,” he stated. “Even though I was able to accomplish that, they simply didn’t think I was a respectable actor.”

Hounsou underlined that although the industry is placing more emphasis on diversity, real equality and inclusivity are still a long way off. There is still more work to be done on this mental notion of diversity. He said, “Systemic racism won’t change like that anytime soon.”

Hounsou has acted in a number of well-known movies throughout the years, such as Furious 7, Amistad, Constantine, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Aquaman. Although he has a devoted following and received critical acclaim for his performances, his open admissions underscore the continued difficulties that actors of color in Hollywood confront.