Taraji P. Henson is currently not married. She was previously engaged to Kelvin Hayden, a former NFL player, but they called off their engagement in October 2020.
Taraji P. Henson is an acclaimed actress and producer known for her impressive roles in film and television. Over the course of her career spanning over two decades, she has garnered multiple awards and nominations. Best known for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on “Empire,” Henson has become a household name.
Her personal life has also garnered attention, particularly her past engagement to Kelvin Hayden. Despite their split, Henson continues to thrive professionally and remains a prominent figure in Hollywood. Fans admire her resilience and talent and eagerly follow her latest projects. Taraji P. Henson’s journey exemplifies success, hard work, and determination.
Quick Bio
Category | Details |
Full Name | Taraji Penda Henson |
Date of Birth | September 11, 1970 |
Age | 54 years (as of 2024) |
Place of Birth | Washington, D.C., United States |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African-American |
Eye Color | Dark Brown |
Hair Color | Dark Brown |
Height | 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
Weight | Approx. 143 lbs (65 kg) |
Body Measurements | 38-28-37 inches |
Body Type | Hourglass |
Parents | Father: Boris Henson (metal fabricator), Mother: Bernice Gordon (corporate manager) |
Siblings | Two younger siblings |
Education | Howard University (Bachelors in Theater Arts) |
Children | 1 (Son: Marcell Johnson) |
Relationship Status | Single (previously engaged to former NFL player Kelvin Hayden) |
Career | Actress, Producer, Author |
Notable Roles | Yvette in Baby Boy, Shug in Hustle & Flow, Queenie in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Cookie Lyon in Empire |
Achievements | Academy Award nomination (Best Supporting Actress), Golden Globe Award, multiple NAACP Image Awards |
Net Worth (2024) | Estimated $30 million |
Monthly Income | Approx. $650,000 |
Annual Income | Approx. $7.8 million |
Business Ventures | Hair care line, Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation for mental health advocacy |
Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
Religion | Christianity |
Who Is Taraji P Henson?

Taraji P. Henson is a celebrated American actress, producer, and author known for her versatility and depth in portraying complex characters across television, film, and theater. Born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., Henson grew up in a challenging environment but found an escape and passion for performance from a young age. She attended Howard University, majoring in theater arts, laying a strong foundation for her acting career. To fund her education, she worked as a secretary at the Pentagon during the day and as a performer on a cruise line at night, showcasing her dedication and resilience.
Henson gained her initial recognition in 2001, portraying Yvette in the cult-classic film Baby Boy, which showcased her talent for bringing raw, emotional depth to her roles. Her breakthrough role came with her portrayal of Shug in Hustle & Flow (2005), for which she sang the Oscar-winning song “It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp,” putting her firmly on Hollywood’s radar. However, her most iconic role to date is arguably Cookie Lyon on the hit TV show Empire (2015–2020), where her fiery, multi-dimensional portrayal of the character earned her a Golden Globe and widespread acclaim.
In addition to Empire, Henson has starred in critically acclaimed films such as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), for which she received an Academy Award nomination, Hidden Figures (2016), which celebrated the contributions of Black women in NASA, and Proud Mary (2018). Her roles often break stereotypes, portraying Black women with strength, intelligence, and vulnerability, contributing to greater representation and diversity in Hollywood.
Beyond her acting career, Henson advocates mental health awareness, particularly within the Black community. She founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her father, to support mental health in underserved communities, demonstrating her commitment to social issues and wellness.
Henson’s career, characterized by resilience, dedication, and a drive to elevate underrepresented voices, inspires fans worldwide. Her influence extends beyond the screen, making her a powerful voice in the entertainment industry and mental health advocacy.
Meeting For The First Time
Taraji P. Henson is known for her incredible acting skills. Her love story with her husband is equally fascinating. Their first meeting is like a scene from a romantic movie. Here’s how they met.
Fateful Encounter
Taraji and her husband met at a mutual friend’s party. The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and music. People mingled and enjoyed the evening. Among the crowd, their eyes met.
It was a fateful encounter that would change their lives forever. They felt an instant connection, and this unexpected meeting marked the beginning of their beautiful journey together.
First Impressions
Taraji was mesmerized by his charming smile, and her husband was equally captivated by her radiant presence. They couldn’t stop talking and laughing. Their first impressions were deeply positive and heartwarming.
They spent the evening sharing stories and discovering common interests. Each moment drew them closer. They felt like they had known each other for years, and their bond grew stronger with every word exchanged.
The Spark
A spark ignited between them, setting the stage for a lasting relationship. This first meeting was the foundation of their love story. It was clear to both that something special had begun.
Their journey from that night led to many beautiful memories. Taraji and her husband cherish that magical evening. It was the start of a wonderful adventure together.
Early Days Of Romance
Taraji P. Henson’s love story is a tale of passion and connection. The early days of her romance with her husband were filled with excitement and genuine affection. Let’s delve into the stages that defined their journey together.
Courtship
The courtship phase was magical for Taraji and her husband. They met through mutual friends at a social gathering. Sparks flew instantly, and they felt a deep connection. During their courtship, they shared many memorable dates.
- Romantic dinners
- Long walks in the park
- Surprise weekend getaways
Each moment brought them closer. They enjoyed learning about each other’s interests and passions. This period laid the foundation for their strong bond.
Building Trust
Building trust was a crucial part of their relationship. They communicated openly about their feelings and past experiences, and trust grew through small, consistent actions. They supported each other’s dreams and aspirations.
Taraji’s husband always made her feel valued and respected. He showed up for her during challenging times, and they built a solid foundation of trust and loyalty.
Key Moments | Actions Taken |
Open Conversations | Discussed fears and aspirations |
Supportive Actions | Encouraged each other’s goals |
Consistent Presence | Showed up during tough times |
This journey of trust and love led to a beautiful, lasting relationship. They continue to cherish and support each other every day.
Navigating Public Life
Being married to a celebrity like Taraji P. Henson comes with its own set of challenges, and her husband’s experience is no different. Navigating public life demands a delicate balance between maintaining personal boundaries and embracing the public eye.
Media Spotlight
The media often shines a bright light on Taraji P. Henson and her husband. Every move they make can become news. They must constantly be aware of their actions and words, and this intense scrutiny can be overwhelming.
Media outlets love to capture their moments together. From red carpet events to casual outings, the couple is always under observation, so they have to be careful about their public appearances.
Event | Media Coverage |
Red Carpet Events | High |
Casual Outings | Medium |
Private Gatherings | Low |
Privacy Challenges
Privacy has become a rare commodity for celebrities and their families. Taraji’s husband often faces challenges in keeping their personal life private. They have to find creative ways to enjoy their time.
- Using aliases during travel
- Avoiding crowded public places
- Employing security measures
Despite these efforts, rumors and speculation are common. The couple must constantly deal with public scrutiny and maintain their mental well-being.
Milestones In Their Relationship
Taraji P. Henson’s relationship has seen many special moments. These moments highlight their strong bond and commitment. Below, we explore the key milestones in their journey together.
First Big Event
Their first significant event was unforgettable. They attended the Oscars together. Taraji’s fans were excited to see her happiness. This public appearance showed their strong connection. They looked stunning and radiant together.
Major Life Changes

Major life changes have marked their relationship. One of the significant changes was their engagement. Taraji announced their engagement with joy. Their engagement news spread quickly among fans. Everyone was thrilled for the couple.
Another major change was moving in together. They decided to share a home, which showed their deep commitment. They created many happy memories in their new home.
They also faced challenges together, which strengthened their bond. They supported each other through thick and thin.
Supporting Each Other’s Careers
Taraji P. Henson and her husband have a unique relationship. They deeply support each other’s careers, and their bond strengthens with mutual encouragement and dedication. Let’s explore how they uplift each other.
Professional Growth
Both Taraji and her husband work in the entertainment industry, so they understand the demands and pressures. Taraji’s husband provides her with emotional and professional support.
He attends her movie premieres and events. Taraji returns the favor by cheering him on in his projects. This mutual respect fosters their professional growth. Their support system helps them excel in their fields.
Balancing Acts
Balancing their careers and personal life is crucial. They make time for each other despite busy schedules. Here are some ways they manage:
- Planning quality time together
- Attending each other’s events
- Communicating openly about their needs
They also share household responsibilities. This balance allows them to thrive both personally and professionally. Their ability to juggle roles ensures their relationship stays strong.
Aspect | How They Manage |
Quality Time | Plan date nights and vacations |
Career Support | Attend each other’s professional events |
Household Duties | Share chores equally |
In their journey, mutual support is key. It helps them balance their demanding careers and personal lives. This balance strengthens their bond and ensures lasting happiness.
Special Moments And Memories
Taraji P Henson and her husband have shared many wonderful moments. Their love story is full of joy and laughter. Let’s explore some of their special memories.
Romantic Getaways
They often escape to beautiful locations. These trips bring them closer together.
- Paris: The City of Love
- Maui: A Tropical Paradise
- Venice: Romantic Gondola Rides
Destination | Special Memory |
Paris | Surprise dinner by the Eiffel Tower |
Maui | Sunset beach walk |
Venice | Private gondola ride |
Celebrating Anniversaries
Every anniversary is a grand celebration. They create lasting memories each year.
- First Anniversary: Candlelit Dinner
- Fifth Anniversary: Romantic Cruise
- Tenth Anniversary: Renewing Vows
Each celebration is unique and special. They cherish these moments deeply.
Overcoming Challenges
Taraji P. Henson and her husband have faced many challenges. Their journey is inspiring. They have shown resilience, love, and commitment through tough times. Let’s explore their story.
Trials And Tribulations
Every couple faces trials. Taraji P. Henson and her husband are no different. They have dealt with misunderstandings and career pressures. The spotlight can be harsh, testing the strongest bonds.
They have also faced personal losses. These moments were tough. Yet, they chose to face them together. Their love and determination helped them survive these storms.
Strengthening Bonds
Facing challenges can either break or make a relationship. For Taraji P. Henson and her husband, it strengthened their bond. They used every trial as a learning opportunity. This made their love deeper.
They focused on communication. Honest talks helped them understand each other better. They also made time for each other. This showed their commitment.
Their shared goals and dreams kept them united. They celebrated small victories together. This created a strong foundation for their relationship.
Challenges | Approach |
Misunderstandings | Open Communication |
Career Pressures | Support Each Other |
Personal Losses | Face Together |
Time Management | Prioritize Relationship |
Their story is a testament to their resilience. Challenges can be tough, but they are overcome with love and commitment.
Future Plans Together

Taraji P. Henson and her husband share a beautiful bond. Their plans are filled with love, dreams, and shared goals. They often talk about what lies ahead. Let’s explore their shared dreams and their vision of growing old together.
Shared Dreams
Both Taraji and her husband have big dreams. They love traveling to new places. They also plan to start a charity to help children. Taraji wants to continue acting in films and shows. Her husband supports her every step of the way.
Here are some of their shared dreams:
- Traveling to every continent
- Starting a family business
- Building a dream home
- Launching a charity for kids
Growing Old Together
Taraji and her husband often talk about growing old together. They dream of a peaceful life in the countryside and want to watch their grandchildren grow. Their love and respect for each other are evident.
Here is a table of their plans:
Plans | Details |
Travel | Visit every continent |
Home | Build a house in the countryside |
Charity | Start a charity for kids |
Growing old together means sharing every moment. It means supporting each other through thick and thin. Taraji and her husband are a true inspiration.
Taraji P. Henson’s Net Worth Overview (2019-2024)
Year | Net Worth | Monthly Income | Annual Income | |
2019 | $20 million | $500,000 | $6 million | |
2020 | $22 million | $550,000 | $6.6 million | |
2021 | $23 million | $570,000 | $6.8 million | |
2022 | $25 million | $600,000 | $7.2 million | |
2023 | $27 million | $620,000 | $7.4 million | |
2024 | $30 million | $650,000 | $7.8 million |
Social Media Profile
Platform | Link |
Wikipedia | Click here |
Click here | |
IMDb | Click here |
Conclusion
Taraji P. Henson’s relationships have always intrigued her fans. Her journey in love reflects her resilience and grace. Whether single or committed, her personal life remains a testament to her strength. Stay tuned for more updates on her inspiring journey and career.
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