Taraji P. Henson: From "Baby Boy" To Empire & Beyond

Marian Baumbach 18 May 2025

Could a single performance truly define an entire career? For Taraji Penda Henson, the answer is unequivocally yes, though her journey is a tapestry woven with threads of talent, tenacity, and unwavering dedication.

Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., Henson has ascended to become one of Hollywood's most celebrated actresses, singers, and producers. Her path, however, wasn't paved with instant success. Instead, it was a climb marked by perseverance, starting with guest roles on television shows before her breakthrough role in the 2001 film, "Baby Boy." It's a testament to her craft that Henson, now 54 years old (as of 2024), continues to captivate audiences with her versatility and depth. Her career, which commenced professionally in 1997, is a chronicle of a woman who refused to be confined by limitations.

Category	Details
Full Name	Taraji Penda Henson
Date of Birth	September 11, 1970
Place of Birth	Washington, D.C., U.S.A.
Age (as of 2024)	54 years old
Height	Approximately 5 feet 4 inches
Occupations	Actress, Singer, Producer, Author
Education	Howard University (studied acting)
Notable Awards	Golden Globe Award, Screen Actors Guild Award
Nominations	Academy Award, Tony Award, Six Emmy Awards (including four Primetime Emmy nominations)
Breakthrough Role	"Baby Boy" (2001)
Defining Role	Cookie Lyon in "Empire"
Other Notable Works	"Hustle & Flow", "The Karate Kid", "Date Night", "Hidden Figures", "Person of Interest"
Collaborations	MAC Cosmetics (#MACtaraji collection, Viva Glam campaign)
Parent's Name	Boris Lawrence Henson and Bernice Gordon
First Name Meaning	"Taraji" in Swahili means hope
Middle Name Meaning	"Penda" in Swahili means love
Reference	Wikipedia

The early chapters of Henson's life, shaped in Washington, D.C., included a divorce of her parents when she was just two years old, which undoubtedly played a role in forging her independent spirit. The environment she grew up in, though described as "one step up from the projects," didn't deter her. Instead, it fueled her ambition. Her parents, Boris Lawrence Henson and Bernice Gordon, provided a foundation that encouraged her love for the arts. Her upbringing in Southeast Washington D.C. and her mother's role as a corporate manager and her father, a janitor and metal fabricator, offered different perspectives on life. This duality possibly instilled a deep understanding of diverse experiences, which later enriched her portrayals of complex characters.

Hensons journey into the world of performance started with school plays and local theater, which became a training ground for her burgeoning talent. She honed her craft at Howard University, where she studied acting. This education provided her with the technical skills and discipline that would serve her throughout her career. She also entered Hollywood in 1997, when she played 'Aida' in an episode of the television series 'The Parent 'Hood'. It was a step towards stardom that would take many years to achieve.

The moniker "Taraji Penda," carrying the Swahili meanings of "hope" and "love," seems almost prophetic in light of her accomplishments. From those humble beginnings, Henson began her career with guest roles on several television shows. She patiently built her reputation, gradually securing more significant roles and gaining the recognition she deserved. Then came "Baby Boy" in 2001, the role that brought her into the limelight. This marked her as a talent to be reckoned with.

Hensons versatility is reflected in her varied roles. In "Hustle & Flow" (2005), she delivered a memorable performance as a prostitute, earning her a Screen Actors Guild Award. Other notable film appearances, such as "The Karate Kid," "Date Night," and "Hidden Figures," showcased her ability to embody a range of characters, from comedic to dramatic. Her dramatic performance earned her five different awards. Notably, her ability to convincingly play the titular character in any movie, earned her a spot in the hearts of people.

Yet, it was her role as Cookie Lyon in the television series "Empire" that truly became a defining moment. The character, a strong, resilient, and complex woman, resonated deeply with audiences. This role brought her widespread recognition and numerous accolades. Henson has spoken candidly about the challenges she faced in Hollywood, including receiving "lowball offers," even after achieving a high level of success and earning numerous awards. Her honesty underscores the enduring struggles of women in the industry, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy and change.

In addition to her acting career, Henson has explored other creative avenues. She collaborated with MAC Cosmetics to create the Taraji P. Henson makeup collection, and also became the spokesperson for their Viva Glam campaign, benefitting the MAC HIV/AIDS Fund. She is also a voice actor, known for voicing characters like Yesss, Belle Bottom, and Victoria Vance. This multi-faceted approach speaks to her artistic drive. She has also added author to her list of accomplishments, further solidifying her place as a creative force.

Henson's perspective on the industry, as evidenced by her statements, is as insightful as it is inspiring. Her love for art is evident in her approach to red-carpet events like the Met Gala, where she embraces the opportunity to showcase her personal style. She shared that the events were about what happens inside. Her choices reflect her intelligence and individuality, emphasizing her connection to the artistic world. When approached about a new movie, Henson had expressed interest in the project because it was a thriller, something she had never done with the director.

From her upbringing in Washington, D.C., to her present-day status as a Hollywood icon, Taraji Penda Henson's story is one of resilience, dedication, and continuous growth. Her impact extends beyond her performances, inspiring generations with her talent, her advocacy, and her unwavering spirit. Her life, like her career, is a testament to the power of hope and love, the very essence of her Swahili name.