Taraji P. Henson has built a career that many in Hollywood can only dream of. From her early guest roles to becoming one of the most recognizable names in entertainment, her filmography and television presence are as diverse as they are impressive. Whether she’s playing strong, complex women or diving into lighter, comedic roles, Taraji brings something special to every project she touches. Her movies and TV shows have not only earned critical acclaim but have also made a lasting impact on audiences around the world.

So, if you’re curious about Taraji P. Henson’s biggest roles or want to catch up on her work, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through some of her most memorable performances, from her breakout moment to her latest projects. We’ll take a closer look at how she got started, how she became a household name, and what makes her such a standout talent.

And if you're wondering where to watch her movies and shows, or which ones you should start with, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of Taraji P. Henson movies and TV shows, and discover why she continues to be such a powerful force in entertainment.

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Table of Contents

• Biography
• Taraji P. Henson’s Filmography
• Taraji P. Henson on Television
• Recent Projects and Upcoming Roles
• The Impact of Taraji P. Henson on Pop Culture
• FAQs About Taraji P. Henson Movies and TV Shows

Biography

Taraji Penda Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C., and grew up in a working-class neighborhood. From a young age, she showed a passion for the arts, eventually pursuing acting at Howard University. Her journey to stardom wasn’t a straight path—she worked odd jobs and faced rejection early in her career, but her determination never wavered.

Today, Taraji is known for her powerful performances and unforgettable characters, both on screen and in film. Her work spans decades and includes everything from Oscar-nominated roles to iconic TV series that became cultural touchstones.

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Taraji P. Henson’s Filmography

So, what movies has Taraji P. Henson been in? A whole lot, and many of them have left a mark. Let’s take a closer look at some of her most notable films that helped shape her career.

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The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)

This was a turning point in her career. In David Fincher’s dreamlike film, Taraji played Queenie, the kind-hearted woman who raises Benjamin Button. Her performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, finally giving her the recognition she deserved.

Taken 2 (2012) and Taken 3 (2014)

In these action-packed sequels, Taraji played FBI agent Ashley Schaefer. Though her role was relatively small compared to Liam Neeson’s lead, she brought a calm authority that made her memorable. It’s interesting how she managed to stand out in a franchise that’s all about high-stakes action and fast-paced storytelling.

Think Like a Man (2014)

This romantic comedy, based on Steve Harvey’s book, gave Taraji a chance to show off her comedic side. She played Candice, one of the main characters navigating the ups and downs of modern dating. The movie was a hit, and it was great to see her in a more lighthearted role.

What Men Want (2019)

In this gender-swapped remake of the 2000 film, Taraji played a sports agent who gains the ability to hear men’s thoughts. It was a fun, empowering story that showcased her ability to carry a film. The movie was a commercial success and proved that she’s just as comfortable in comedies as she is in dramas.

Taraji P. Henson on Television

Now, when it comes to Taraji P. Henson TV shows, one name immediately comes to mind: Cookie Lyon.

Empire (2015–2020)

This Fox drama series was a cultural phenomenon, and Taraji was at the center of it. As Cookie Lyon, the matriarch of the Lyon music dynasty, she gave one of the most iconic TV performances of the decade. She was bold, unapologetic, and incredibly stylish, making her a fan favorite. Her chemistry with Terrence Howard, Bryshere Y. Gray, and Trai Byers made the show must-watch TV.

Person of Interest (2012–2013)

Before Empire, Taraji played Joss Carter, a no-nonsense NYPD detective who becomes entangled with a mysterious vigilante group. Though she left the show after two seasons, her character was so beloved that fans still talk about her impact today.

Guest Appearances and Early Roles

Before breaking through, Taraji had guest roles on shows like CSI, Strong Medicine, and Family Matters. She even played a small role in the sitcom The Jamie Foxx Show. These early roles helped her build experience and showcase her versatility.

Recent Projects and Upcoming Roles

Taraji has kept herself busy with a mix of film, television, and even voice acting. She’s not slowing down, and that’s great news for her fans.

Hidden Figures (2016)

One of her most inspiring roles was as Katherine Johnson, the brilliant NASA mathematician whose work was critical to the space program. This film was not only a box office success but also a powerful reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of Black women in science and technology.

Harlem (2021–)

In this Amazon Prime series, Taraji created and starred in a show about four Black women navigating life in New York. It was a fresh take on friendship and success, and it gave her a chance to be both in front of and behind the camera.

Upcoming Projects

She’s reportedly working on a new movie and has expressed interest in returning to television with more dramatic roles. Given her track record, it’s safe to say whatever she does next will be worth watching.

The Impact of Taraji P. Henson on Pop Culture

Taraji hasn’t just had a successful career—she’s made a cultural impact. Her roles have inspired countless fans, especially women of color, to pursue their dreams and own their power. Whether it’s through her fashion choices on Empire or her powerful speeches about equality in Hollywood, she’s a voice for change.

She’s also not afraid to speak out about mental health, which she did through her foundation, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, named after her father. This has helped reduce the stigma around mental health in the Black community and shown her commitment to making a difference beyond entertainment.

FAQs About Taraji P. Henson Movies and TV Shows

What is Taraji P. Henson’s most famous role?

Her most iconic role is definitely Cookie Lyon from Empire. The character became a cultural touchstone, and Taraji’s performance earned her a Golden Globe and multiple Emmy nominations.

What movies has Taraji P. Henson been in?

Some of her most well-known films include The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, Think Like a Man, What Men Want, and Hidden Figures. She’s also appeared in action films like the Taken sequels.

Is Taraji P. Henson still acting?

Absolutely! She continues to take on new roles in both film and television. She’s also exploring writing and producing, giving her more creative control over her projects.

For more on her latest work, you can learn more about Taraji’s upcoming projects on our site. If you're curious about how she got started, check out this page for a deep dive into her early career.