Taraji P. Henson's Movie Roles: A Complete List

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Hey movie buffs and Taraji P. Henson fans! If you're looking to dive deep into the incredible filmography of this powerhouse actress, you've come to the right place. Taraji P. Henson isn't just an actress; she's a force of nature, bringing unforgettable characters to life with her raw talent, charisma, and undeniable presence. From heartwarming dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and intense thrillers, she's done it all, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore the amazing list of movies Taraji P. Henson has graced with her talent. We're going to break down her journey, highlighting some of her most iconic roles and giving you a comprehensive look at her cinematic achievements. Get ready to add some serious gems to your watch list, guys!

Early Career and Breakthrough Roles

It's always fascinating to look back at where it all began, right? Taraji P. Henson's journey to stardom wasn't an overnight success story; it was a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering passion for acting. Her early career saw her taking on smaller roles, honing her craft, and gradually building a name for herself in the industry. One of her early significant roles that really started to turn heads was in the critically acclaimed 2001 film "Hustle & Flow". In this movie, she played Shug, a prostitute and the supportive girlfriend of a Memphis pimp who dreams of becoming a rapper. Her performance was nothing short of phenomenal. She delivered a portrayal that was both vulnerable and strong, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. This role was a massive breakthrough, showcasing her immense talent to a much wider audience and setting the stage for bigger and better things to come. Before "Hustle & Flow," you might have caught her in films like "Streetwise" (1997) and "Baby Boy" (2001), where she already demonstrated glimpses of the magnetic performer she would become. These initial steps were crucial, allowing her to experiment, learn, and prove her versatility. The industry started to take notice, recognizing her ability to disappear into characters and connect with viewers on a deep emotional level. Her commitment to her roles, even the smaller ones, always shone through, making her stand out in ensemble casts and leaving a memorable impact. This period was all about laying a solid foundation, and Taraji P. Henson certainly built hers with impressive strength and artistry.

A Star on the Rise: Memorable Performances

Following her Oscar-nominated turn in "Hustle & Flow," Taraji P. Henson's career entered an exciting phase. She proved that her breakthrough wasn't a fluke, delivering memorable performances in a diverse range of films that solidified her status as a sought-after actress. In 2008, she starred alongside Brad Pitt in the visually stunning and critically lauded film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button". Playing Queenie, the compassionate nurse who adopts and raises Benjamin, Taraji earned another Academy Award nomination, this time for Best Supporting Actress. Her portrayal of Queenie was full of warmth, wisdom, and a quiet strength that anchored the fantastical story. She brought such a grounding humanity to the character, making Benjamin's unusual life feel relatable and deeply moving. This role further cemented her ability to hold her own against major Hollywood stars and deliver performances that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Another standout film from this period is the 2010 comedy "Date Night", where she played Detective Sharma, a no-nonsense cop who pursues Steve Carell and Tina Fey's characters through a series of hilarious misunderstandings. While a supporting role, Taraji injected a fantastic energy and comedic timing that made her scenes incredibly entertaining. She has a knack for stealing scenes, no matter how big or small her part is. Her ability to seamlessly transition between dramatic intensity and sharp comedic wit is truly a gift. These films, among others, showcased her growing range and versatility, proving she could tackle complex characters in prestige dramas as well as provide comedic relief in lighter fare. It was clear that Taraji P. Henson was no longer just a rising star; she was a bona fide leading lady in the making, capable of carrying a film and captivating viewers with every role she took on.

Dominating the Box Office and Critical Acclaim

Let's talk about when Taraji P. Henson really started dominating the box office and garnering widespread critical acclaim, especially for her leading roles. Arguably one of her most iconic and beloved roles came in 2016 with the release of the film "Hidden Figures". This biographical drama tells the inspiring true story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson – brilliant African-American women working at NASA who were instrumental in calculating the trajectory for the Apollo 11 flight to the moon. Taraji played Katherine Johnson, a mathematical genius whose calculations were critical to the space mission's success. Her portrayal was powerful, intelligent, and deeply moving, earning her a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Leading Role and a Golden Globe nomination. The film itself was a massive critical and commercial success, praised for its historical significance, its uplifting message, and its stellar performances. Taraji was the emotional anchor of the film, embodying Katherine's resilience, intellect, and quiet determination in the face of racial and gender discrimination. Her performance made Katherine Johnson a household name and brought the vital contributions of these women to the forefront. Before "Hidden Figures," she also starred in the successful 2009 film "I Can Do Bad All By Myself", where she played a struggling singer. She brought a raw emotional depth to the role, showcasing her musical talent as well. Then there's the highly acclaimed drama "The Color of Water" (2005), where she delivered a compelling performance. The success of "Hidden Figures" was a watershed moment, demonstrating her capability to lead a major studio film and connect with a broad audience. It highlighted her ability to bring depth, nuance, and a commanding presence to every character she embodies, whether it's a historical figure or a complex fictional one. She truly became a household name, celebrated for her talent and her ability to choose roles that are not only entertaining but also meaningful and inspiring.

Television Stardom and Beyond

While Taraji P. Henson has an impressive film career, we absolutely have to talk about her incredible success on television, particularly her role as Cookie Lyon in the wildly popular Fox drama "Empire". Premiering in 2015, the show became a cultural phenomenon, and Taraji's portrayal of the fierce, unapologetic, and utterly fabulous matriarch of the Lyon family was a masterclass in acting. She completely owned the role, bringing Cookie to life with her signature blend of sass, vulnerability, and killer fashion sense. Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama, multiple Emmy nominations, and widespread critical acclaim. Cookie Lyon became an iconic character, and Taraji's take on her was a huge reason for the show's massive success. The character was complex, flawed, and deeply human, and Taraji navigated all of it with incredible skill. She wasn't just acting; she was living as Cookie. Even though "Empire" is her most prominent television role, she's had other notable TV appearances throughout her career, including guest spots on shows like "ER," "The Division," and "Boston Legal" early on. Her transition to leading a hit series like "Empire" showed her immense range and appeal, proving she could captivate audiences week after week. Beyond her acting work, Taraji has also become a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, often sharing her own experiences and encouraging others to prioritize their well-being. This extension of her public persona adds another layer to her impact, showing she's not just a talented entertainer but also a compassionate and influential figure. Her journey from the big screen to television dominance and her ventures beyond acting are a testament to her multifaceted talent and enduring appeal.

Notable Films and Recent Works

Taraji P. Henson continues to be a vibrant force in Hollywood, consistently choosing projects that showcase her versatility and passion. Her filmography is a testament to her broad appeal and her commitment to compelling storytelling. Let's highlight some notable films and her more recent works that keep us glued to our screens. In 2018, she starred in the action-packed film "Proud Mary", where she played a hitwoman with a heart of gold. While the film received mixed reviews, Taraji's performance was praised for her charisma and ability to command the screen. She also lent her voice to the animated feature "Ralph Breaks the Internet" (2018), playing the character Yesss, a trend-making algorithm. This role demonstrated her ability to adapt her talent to different mediums and character types. More recently, Taraji starred in the romantic comedy "What Men Want" (2019), a gender-swapped remake of the Mel Gibson classic, where she played a sports agent who suddenly gains the ability to hear men's thoughts. Her comedic timing and magnetic presence were on full display, making the film an entertaining watch. In 2021, she took on a role in the musical drama "The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder", continuing her voice acting career. She also starred in the Tyler Perry-directed drama "I Can Do Bad All By Myself" (2019), showcasing her dramatic chops once again. Her role in the 2023 film "The Best Man: The Final Chapters" continued her legacy in popular franchises. And looking ahead, she's slated for more exciting projects that promise to deliver the captivating performances fans have come to expect. Her recent work demonstrates that she's not slowing down; she's actively seeking out challenging and diverse roles that allow her to continue exploring the breadth of her acting talent. Whether it's a blockbuster hit, an indie gem, or a voice-acting gig, Taraji P. Henson consistently delivers, making her one of the most exciting actresses to watch in the industry today.

Filmography: A Comprehensive List

To give you the ultimate guide, here's a more comprehensive list of movies Taraji P. Henson has graced with her presence. This list aims to cover her feature film work, though keep in mind that TV movies and short films might be excluded for brevity. It's an impressive collection that spans genres and decades, showcasing her incredible journey and artistic evolution.

  • Streetwise (1997)
  • The Price of Kissing (1997)
  • Date with Darkness (1998)
  • Go (1999)
  • The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle (2000)
  • Deep Affection (2000)
  • 3 Strikes (2000)
  • Baby Boy (2001)
  • DFS: Down For Street (2001)
  • Anna's Will (2001)
  • Spirit (2001)
  • Hustle & Flow (2005)
  • Four Brothers (2005)
  • The Good Shepherd (2006)
  • Smokin' Aces (2006)
  • Talk to Me (2007)
  • The Bucket List (2007)
  • Proud American (2008)
  • Shine a Light (2008) - Documentary, footage from concert
  • The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
  • Not Easily Broken (2009)
  • I Can Do Bad All By Myself (2009)
  • Small Steps (2009)
  • When Love Calls (2009)
  • Date Night (2010)
  • The Other Guys (2010)
  • Stronger (2010)
  • Think Like a Man (2012)
  • Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man (2012) - Voice role, narrator
  • Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted (2012) - Voice role
  • From the Rough (2013)
  • Think Like a Man Too (2014)
  • Top Five (2014)
  • Ride Along 2 (2016)
  • Hidden Figures (2016)
  • Proud Mary (2018)
  • Acrimony (2018)
  • Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) - Voice role
  • What Men Want (2019)
  • The Best Man Holiday (2019) - Cameo
  • The Hate U Give (2018)
  • The Perfect Guy (2015)
  • Nine Lives (2016)
  • The Color Purple (2023)

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the incredible movie career of Taraji P. Henson. From her breakout performance in "Hustle & Flow" to her unforgettable role as Cookie Lyon on "Empire" and her inspiring turn in "Hidden Figures", Taraji has consistently proven herself to be one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her generation. She has a remarkable ability to connect with audiences, bringing authenticity, power, and heart to every character she portrays. This list is a testament to her dedication, hard work, and the sheer magic she brings to the screen. We can't wait to see what she does next! Keep shining, Taraji!