Taraji P. Henson is one of the most versatile and accomplished actors in Hollywood today. She has left an indelible mark on both the big and small screens. From her compelling performances to her charismatic presence, Henson has captivated audiences worldwide. She’s taken turns as a mathematician, an assassin, a cop, and even a woman who can hear the very thoughts of men. Each compelling, versatile take she has had with each role further cements her place as a Hollywood icon, now and forever. Let’s take a journey through her impressive filmography, highlighting her notable movies and TV shows, along with their ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb.
Taraji P. Henson’s Movies
Baby Boy (2001)
Rotten Tomatoes: 74% IMDb: 6.4
In this urban drama directed by John Singleton, Henson shines as Yvette, a young mother trying to navigate life’s challenges while dealing with a tumultuous relationship in the form of Tyrese Gibson. Henson was praised for her portrayal of the long-suffering Yvette and it has since become one of her many stand out roles in film.
Hustle & Flow (2005)
Rotten Tomatoes: 82% IMDb: 7.3
Henson’s portrayal of Shug, a sex worker turned aspiring singer, earned her critical acclaim in this story of a Memphis hustler’s journey to becoming a rapper. Though it could have been easy to be overshadowed by Terrence Howard’s magnificent performance, Henson shows in this role that she has the star power to stand her own. She shines in every scene given to her and leaves movie watchers wanting more.
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Rotten Tomatoes: 71% IMDb: 7.8
Starring alongside Brad Pitt, Henson plays Queenie, a caregiver who forms a unique bond with a man who ages backward. The film received widespread praise for its innovative premise. Henson herself showed her versatility in the role as Pitt’s caretaker, exuding humility and warmth. Her hard work captured the hearts of many, as well as the Academy who nominated her for an Oscar.
Hidden Figures (2016)
Rotten Tomatoes: 93% IMDb: 7.8
In this inspiring true story, Henson portrays Katherine Johnson, a brilliant mathematician at NASA who played a pivotal role in the success of the early space missions. Sharing screen time with Kevin Costner at first sounds like it would be no easy feat, but Henson held her own and many believed she was a no-brainer for the Best Actress nomination from the Academy. However, she was snubbed that year, which only helped her to garner even more critical acclaim as an actor.
The Best of Enemies (2019)
Rotten Tomatoes: 53% IMDb: 7.0
Henson takes on the role of Ann Atwater, an activist who finds herself at odds with a Ku Klux Klan leader in this drama based on real events. The premise may sound far-fetched, but the dyamic on screen between Henson and Sam Rockwell was simply electrifying. The hate, pity, sympathy, and eventual friendship of the two real-life individuals lit of screens and hearts.
What Men Want (2019)
Rotten Tomatoes: 43% IMDb: 5.2
In this gender-flipped remake, Henson stars as a woman who gains the ability to hear men’s thoughts, leading to both comedic and insightful moments. Taking the lead role this time around (the original movie starred Mel Gibson), Henson lends both great comedic timing as well as physical comedy to a role that some might consider one-note. However, her depth of charm and facial angst makes for a great time.
Taraji P. Henson’s TV Shows
Person of Interest (2011–2013)
Rotten Tomatoes: 89% (Average for all seasons) IMDb: 8.4
Henson joined the ensemble cast as Joss Carter, a determined NYPD homicide detective in this crime-thriller series about a super-computer that predicts crimes and those who heed its call. For Henson, albeit not her first role, this role was in many ways an introductory role into the hearts of television viewers everywhere. She chewed up every scene handed to her and stood her own next to Jim Caviezel.
Empire (2015–2020)
Rotten Tomatoes: 84% (Average for all seasons) IMDb: 6.7
Henson’s iconic role as Cookie Lyon, an ex-con turned music mogul, garnered her widespread recognition and numerous award nominations. And talk about chewing scenery. No one does it better than when Cookie (Henson) comes walking on screen. Even Terrence Howard paled in comparison next to her screen persona.
The Simpsons (2021)
IMDb: 6.8
Henson lends her voice to a character in the long-running animated series, showcasing her versatility beyond live-action roles. It’s oftentimes said that if an actor makes it onto The Simpsons, well, they really have made it. The longest-running American sitcom has made it into the zeitgeist of the American soul, and for an actor to be captured on it is an honor. This, more than anything else, may be the true award and crowning achievement in Taraji P. Henson’s career as an actor.
Taraji P. Henson’s filmography is a testament to her talent and dedication as an actor. Her ability to portray a wide range of characters, from emotionally charged dramas to lighthearted comedies, has solidified her status as a Hollywood powerhouse. As she continues to grace screens, audiences can undoubtedly look forward to more exceptional performances from this remarkable artist.
