Jada Pinkett Smith commended Taraji P. Henson for addressing pay disparity in Hollywood. Henson expressed frustration during an interview with Gayle King, citing unequal pay despite her hard work. She revealed financial challenges despite a $10 million payday, emphasizing the recurring issue of being undervalued after breaking glass ceilings. Jada Pinkett Smith praised Henson's courage to speak up, acknowledging the unique pressures faced by Black entertainers.
Smith discussed the challenges Black actors face and highlighted her shift to the production side of Hollywood to address the problem. “People would literally say, ‘Well, you don’t need it. You’re married to Will [Smith],'” adding, “It’s not to say that I won’t get in front of the camera, but what it takes for me to get in front of the camera, it’s more. Just in regards to the kind of roles that I want to play or that interest me. And I’m thinking about directing.”
Various reactions followed Henson's comments, with Gabrielle Union, Keke Palmer, and Mo'Nique expressing support, while Vivica A. Fox took a different stance, emphasizing the importance of getting the work done despite potential challenges on set.
