Djimon Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor and model, renowned for his powerful performances in Hollywood. Born on April 24, 1964, in Cotonou, Benin, he moved to France as a teenager before settling in the United States. Hounsou gained international acclaim with his role as Cinqué in Amistad (1997), directed by Steven Spielberg. He has earned multiple award nominations, including two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for In America (2003) and Blood Diamond (2006). Beyond acting, he is recognized for his advocacy for African culture and his humanitarian work.