Taraji P. Henson Movies & TV Shows: The Ultimate Guide

Hey guys! Are you a big fan of Taraji P. Henson? If so, you're in the right place! This in-depth guide dives into the amazing world of her films and TV shows. We'll explore some of her most memorable roles, from her early work to her recent successes. Get ready to discover or rediscover why Taraji P. Henson is a true icon in the entertainment industry.

Early Career Highlights

Before she became a household name, Taraji P. Henson was already building a solid foundation in the acting world. Her early roles showcased her versatility and undeniable talent, hinting at the stardom that awaited her. Let's take a look at some of those early career highlights.

Baby Boy (2001)

In Baby Boy, Taraji P. Henson played Yvette, the girlfriend of Jody, portrayed by Tyrese Gibson. This coming-of-age drama, directed by John Singleton, delves into the lives of young adults in South Central Los Angeles, grappling with love, responsibility, and the challenges of adulthood. Henson's portrayal of Yvette was both vulnerable and strong, capturing the complexities of a young woman navigating difficult relationships and societal pressures. The film was a critical and commercial success, providing Henson with significant exposure and establishing her as a talent to watch. Her performance resonated with audiences, highlighting her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters. Baby Boy remains a significant entry in Henson's filmography, showcasing her early potential and solidifying her place in Hollywood.

Hustle & Flow (2005)

Hustle & Flow marked a turning point in Taraji P. Henson's career. She played Shug, a pregnant prostitute who supports DJay, a pimp and drug dealer played by Terrence Howard, in his pursuit of becoming a rapper. This film, directed by Craig Brewer, is a gritty and compelling story of ambition, redemption, and the power of music. Henson's performance was nothing short of phenomenal, earning her widespread critical acclaim. She brought a raw and emotional intensity to the role of Shug, portraying her vulnerability, resilience, and unwavering support for DJay. The film's success, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song, further elevated Henson's profile and solidified her status as a leading actress. Her chemistry with Terrence Howard was undeniable, adding depth and authenticity to their characters' complex relationship. Hustle & Flow is a testament to Henson's ability to tackle challenging roles and deliver powerful, memorable performances.

Breakthrough TV Roles

While making waves in film, Taraji P. Henson also ventured into television, where she landed roles that further showcased her range and charisma. These TV roles not only broadened her audience but also allowed her to develop her craft and solidify her position as a versatile actress.

The Division (2002-2004)

In The Division, Taraji P. Henson played Inspector Raina Washington, a dedicated and ambitious police officer working in San Francisco. This crime drama series focused on the lives and careers of female officers, exploring the challenges they faced in a male-dominated profession. Henson's portrayal of Raina was strong and assertive, highlighting her character's intelligence, determination, and commitment to justice. The show provided Henson with a platform to showcase her ability to portray complex and multifaceted characters, further expanding her range as an actress. The Division was a significant role for Henson, allowing her to gain valuable experience in television and build a loyal fan base. Her performance resonated with audiences, highlighting her ability to bring authenticity and depth to her characters. The series also addressed important social issues, such as gender inequality and police brutality, making it a relevant and impactful show.

Boston Legal (2007-2008)

Taraji P. Henson joined the cast of Boston Legal as Whitney Rome, a confident and intelligent lawyer working at the prestigious law firm of Crane, Poole & Schmidt. This legal comedy-drama, created by David E. Kelley, was known for its sharp writing, quirky characters, and exploration of complex legal and social issues. Henson's portrayal of Whitney was both humorous and insightful, showcasing her character's wit, charm, and unwavering commitment to her clients. Boston Legal provided Henson with the opportunity to work alongside established actors such as James Spader and William Shatner, further honing her skills and expanding her network. The show's success and critical acclaim elevated Henson's profile and solidified her status as a versatile and talented actress. Her performance resonated with audiences, highlighting her ability to bring depth and humor to her characters. Boston Legal remains a significant entry in Henson's television career, showcasing her ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic roles.

Empire: The Role That Defined a Generation

No discussion of Taraji P. Henson's career would be complete without mentioning her iconic role as Cookie Lyon in the hit television series Empire. This role not only cemented her status as a superstar but also earned her numerous awards and accolades. Cookie Lyon is arguably one of the most memorable and influential characters in modern television history.

Empire (2015-2020)

In Empire, Taraji P. Henson played Cookie Lyon, the fierce and flamboyant matriarch of the Lyon family, a powerful dynasty in the music industry. This drama series, created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, explores themes of family, power, ambition, and the challenges of the music business. Henson's portrayal of Cookie was nothing short of iconic, earning her widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress. She brought a raw and unapologetic energy to the role, captivating audiences with her charisma, wit, and unwavering loyalty to her family. Cookie Lyon became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless memes, catchphrases, and Halloween costumes. The character's impact on popular culture is undeniable, solidifying Henson's status as a true superstar. Empire was a ratings juggernaut, attracting millions of viewers each week and sparking conversations about race, class, and sexuality. Henson's performance resonated with audiences around the world, making her a household name and cementing her legacy in television history. Empire will forever be remembered as the show that launched Taraji P. Henson into the stratosphere.

Recent Film Ventures

Even after her success with Empire, Taraji P. Henson has continued to take on diverse and challenging roles in film, showcasing her versatility and commitment to her craft. These recent film ventures demonstrate her willingness to explore new genres and characters, further solidifying her position as a leading actress in Hollywood.

Hidden Figures (2016)

In Hidden Figures, Taraji P. Henson starred as Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician who played a crucial role in NASA's early space missions. This historical drama, directed by Theodore Melfi, tells the inspiring story of three African-American women who overcame racial and gender barriers to contribute to some of the most significant achievements in American history. Henson's portrayal of Katherine Johnson was both intelligent and inspiring, capturing her character's brilliance, determination, and resilience. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. Hidden Figures brought to light the untold stories of these remarkable women, shedding light on their contributions to science and technology. Henson's performance resonated with audiences, highlighting the importance of diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Hidden Figures is a testament to Henson's ability to portray complex and inspiring characters, further solidifying her status as a leading actress in Hollywood.

Proud Mary (2018)

Taraji P. Henson took on the action genre in Proud Mary, playing the titular character, a hitwoman working for an organized crime family in Boston. This action-thriller, directed by Babak Najafi, showcases Henson's ability to handle intense fight sequences and portray a complex and morally ambiguous character. While the film received mixed reviews, Henson's performance was praised for her physicality and charisma. She brought a fierce and commanding presence to the role, demonstrating her versatility as an actress. Proud Mary allowed Henson to step outside of her comfort zone and explore a new genre, further expanding her range as an actress. The film's action sequences were well-choreographed and visually stunning, showcasing Henson's ability to perform in physically demanding roles. Proud Mary is a testament to Henson's willingness to take risks and challenge herself as an actress.

Why Taraji P. Henson is an Icon

Taraji P. Henson's journey to stardom is a testament to her talent, hard work, and unwavering dedication to her craft. She has consistently delivered memorable performances in a wide range of roles, captivating audiences with her charisma, versatility, and ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters. From her early work in Baby Boy and Hustle & Flow to her iconic role as Cookie Lyon in Empire and her recent success in Hidden Figures, Henson has proven herself to be one of the most talented and respected actresses in Hollywood. Her impact on popular culture is undeniable, inspiring countless fans with her strength, grace, and unapologetic authenticity.

A Role Model and Inspiration

Beyond her acting achievements, Taraji P. Henson is also a role model and inspiration to many. She has been an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, using her platform to break down stigmas and encourage others to seek help. She has also been a champion for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, advocating for greater representation of people of color in the entertainment industry. Henson's commitment to social justice and her willingness to speak out on important issues make her a true icon and a force for positive change in the world. She has used her success to empower others and inspire them to pursue their dreams, regardless of the obstacles they may face. Taraji P. Henson is not only a talented actress but also a compassionate and caring human being, making her a true role model for aspiring actors and anyone who wants to make a difference in the world.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at the incredible career of Taraji P. Henson! From her early roles to her breakthrough performances and recent ventures, she has consistently proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. Keep an eye out for her future projects, because you know she's always got something amazing up her sleeve!