Terrence Howard: Celebrity Actor

Terrence Howard is an acclaimed actor, musician, and cultural figure whose award-winning performances and industry experience make him a compelling voice for events

  • Highlights:
    • Starred in major films including Hustle & Flow, Crash, Ray, Four Brothers, and Iron Man
    • Lead actor in FOX’s hit television series Empire
    • Musician and recording artist with Columbia Records
    • Performer of the Academy Award-winning soundtrack for Hustle & Flow
  • Formats:

    Celebrity actor, musician, and keynote speaker.

  • Audiences:

    Corporate events, entertainment industry gatherings, universities, festivals, brand showcases, and organisations seeking celebrity insight, creativity, and industry perspective.

  • Outcomes:
    1. Behind-the-scenes understanding of film, television, and music industries
    2. Insight into creativity, resilience, and navigating long-term success in entertainment
    3. Engaging storytelling that connects personal journey with broader cultural themes
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • **Fee range: $75,001 - $100,000

Keynote Topics

Talent Short Bio

Terrence Howard is a celebrated American actor, musician, and producer whose dynamic career spans film, television, and music. He first gained widespread recognition with his breakout performance in Mr. Holland’s Opus, which opened the door to a long list of critically acclaimed roles. Terrence has since starred in notable films such as Ray, Lackawanna Blues, Crash, Four Brothers, Hustle & Flow, Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Idlewild, August Rush, The Brave One, and Marvel’s Iron Man alongside Robert Downey Jr.

Terrence is widely known for his leading role as Lucious Lyon in the hit FOX series Empire, where his powerful performance helped the show become the network’s highest-rated debut in three years. Empire went on to grow its audience by 82 percent from premiere to finale, firmly establishing Terrence as a major television force.

Alongside acting, Terrence is an accomplished musician. He released his debut album Shine Through It with Columbia Records, and performed all tracks for the film Hustle & Flow, including the Academy Award-winning song It’s Hard Out Here for a Pimp.

Terrence Howard had his first major film role in Mr. Holland’s Opus which led to numerous roles in films. His movie roles include Winnie, Ray, Lackawanna Blues, Crash, Four Brothers, Hustle & Flow, Get Rich or Die Tryin’, Idlewild, August Rush, The Brave One and co-starred in Iron Man opposite Robert Downey Jr.

Terrence currently stars in the new Fox musical television series, Empire alongside long-time friend Taraji P. Henson. Empire was rated Fox’s highest-rated debut in three years and grew 82 percent in viewership from the season one premiere to the finale. The show has been renewed for a second season.

Terrence Howard released his debut album, Shine Through It in 2008 with Columbia Records. He preformed all the tracks for the movie, Hustle and Flow which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp. Terrence Howard is available for speaking engagements, endorsements, and personal appearances.

APPEARANCES: Law & Order: Los Angeles, Sparks, Street Time, Tall Hopes, Charlie Rose, Coach, Family Matters, FOX Saturday Baseball Game of the Week, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Late Show with David Letterman, Live with Kelly, Lopez Tonight, The Academy Awards, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Jay Leno Show, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, The View

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Talent Videos

Terrence Howard Does a Play-by-Play of His Oscars Flub

In this 3 minute and 12 second interview clip, Terrence Howard gives a humorous and candid breakdown of the moments leading up to his awkward Best Picture introduction at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Summary

In this clip from The Tonight Show, Terrence Howard sits down with Jimmy Fallon to recount, in entertaining detail, how his now-famous Oscars flub unfolded. He begins by explaining that he had taken the role of presenter very seriously, rehearsing his lines repeatedly and wanting the delivery to feel powerful and emotional. Terrence shares that he was deeply invested in the moment, hoping to create an impactful introduction rather than a routine reading.

As he describes the lead-up, he reveals that nerves and over-analysis became his downfall. He explains that while backstage he began second-guessing his performance approach, unsure whether to present with intensity, vulnerability, or dramatic flair. Terrence reenacts the internal debate he had with himself, showcasing his emotional swings and comedic exaggeration of the pressure he felt.

By the time he walked out onstage, he says he was overwhelmed, overthinking every word, and suddenly aware that millions were watching. His delivery fell apart as he stumbled through the introduction, leaving him embarrassed and frustrated. Terrence’s playful reenactments highlight both the humor and humanity of the moment, showing how even seasoned performers can freeze under scrutiny.

Key Moments

  • 00:00 Jimmy introduces the Oscars mishap topic; Terrence prepares to explain the moment.
  • 00:22 Terrence describes taking the presenting role seriously and rehearsing extensively.
  • 00:48 He recounts the backstage overthinking that caused him to second-guess his delivery.
  • 01:20 Terrence reenacts his emotional shifts and rising nerves before walking onstage.

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Talent Resources

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (12)
  • (1)
Tom Coverly

Tom Coverly is a world-renowned entertainer, celebrated for his remarkable ability to blend comedy, magic, and motivational speaking into an unforgettable experience. Known as “The Illusionist,” Tom captivates audiences with jaw-dropping magic tricks and heartwarming humor, while delivering powerful life lessons that resonate deeply with people of all ages. Having performed for millions across the […]

  • Travels from: Pensacola, FL
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (19)
Jasmine Star

Jasmine Star helps entrepreneurs build a brand and market it on social media.  After quitting law school, she picked up a camera, built an internationally recognized business, and teaches others how to do the same. In addition to chasing wild dreams, Jasmine works with her husband and grumpy dog, and you’ll likely find her walking […]

  • Travels from: Newport Beach, CA
  • Business Speakers
  • (34)
Jenn Lim

Jenn Lim is the bestselling author of Beyond Happiness, and the CEO of Delivering Happiness [DH], a company she and Tony Hsieh [the late CEO of Zappos.com] cofounded to create happier company cultures for a more profitable and sustainable approach to business. Delivering Happiness started as a book (New York Times and WSJ Bestseller, which sold one million copies worldwide) and […]

  • Travels from: Oakland, CA
  • Culture Speakers
  • (40)
Henry Evans

Henry Evans is the Founder and Managing Partner for Dynamic Results, LLC. In his career, Henry Evans has delivered more than 10,000 hours of Executive Coaching and also, more than 2000 hours of Change Management and Strategic Implementation services to clients. He applies the knowledge and experience gleaned from numerous successes and a failure in […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (29)
Orlando Jones

Orlando Jones Emcee is an award-winning actor, comedian, writer, and producer, celebrated for his versatile talent and expertise in technology. Founder of Legion of Creatives, he earned the first-ever Virtual Reality Emmy in 2015. Jones has collaborated extensively with digital thought leader Shelly Palmer, delving into generative AI, Web 3, and emerging technologies. A board […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Celebrity Emcees
  • (8)
Uri Levine - co founder waze

Uri Levine is a globally recognized serial entrepreneur, tech visionary, and champion of problem-driven innovation who has dedicated his career to disrupting inefficient markets and creating large-scale value for consumers. Best known as the co-founder of Waze, the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, Uri helped build a platform that fundamentally changed how hundreds […]

  • Travels from: Tel Aviv-Yafo
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (28)
Chris Steely

As a top rated business facilitator, NCAA national rowing champion, U.S. Marine Corps Officer, corporate vice-president, business owner, MBA, world traveler, inspirational author, renowned global business coach, and devoted husband, Chris Steely has a vast array of life and leadership experience. As the Director of Coaching for the world’s top business coaching company, Chris has […]

  • Travels from: San Diego, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (18)
Kelly Maryanski

Kelly Maryanski is a Los Angeles-based powerhouse, seamlessly blending a kaleidoscope of talents into a captivating entertainment experience. As a multidisciplinary artist, Kelly defies categorization, effortlessly embodying roles as a dancer, circus artist, athlete, aerialist, storyteller, actor, singer, musician, illustrator, and choreographer. With a rich tapestry of formal training spanning ballet, contemporary dance, musical theater, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Aerial Performers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.