BIOGRAPHY

Taraji P. Henson is an American actress and author. She was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Henson rose to fame for her role as Cookie Lyon on the television series "Empire," which aired from 2015 to 2020.

Henson began her acting career in the late 1990s, appearing in several television shows and films. She gained critical acclaim for her performance as Shug in the 2005 film "Hustle & Flow," which earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination.

Henson's breakout role came in 2008 when she starred as Queenie in the film "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She has since appeared in numerous films, including "Hidden Figures," "Think Like a Man," and "What Men Want."

In addition to her film work, Henson has also appeared in television shows such as "Person of Interest" and "Boston Legal." She has received several awards for her acting, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series Drama for her role in "Empire."

Outside of acting, Henson is also an author and activist. She has written a memoir, "Around the Way Girl," and is an advocate for mental health awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.

Overall, Taraji P. Henson has established herself as a talented and versatile actress, known for her powerful performances and advocacy work. Her charisma, talent, and dedication to her craft have earned her a loyal fan base and respect from her peers in the industry.