In a world where it seems like anyone could damn near be the president, actor Terrence Howard seems to want a shot at it, and he’s not laughing when you ask him about it.
The “Empire” star was caught by TMZ cameras in New York City on Wednesday. Reporter Seleah Simone asked whether he was looking forward to voting, he said he was looking forward to becoming president. When pressed him on whether he was serious, Howard held his ground. “If they’re not going to make a difference, somebody’s got to do something.”
Howard’s remarks came while he was also weighing in on Nicki Minaj and her very public closeness with Trump. Minaj was helped onto the stage by the president at a campaign rally in Port Huron, Michigan, on Sunday, October 25. While he didn’t have much to say about their relationship, he said he’s happy to see her dipping into politics.
👀 EXCLUSIVE: Terrence Howard has his sights set on the White House … telling TMZ he might just have to run for president if nobody else is willing to make a real difference. https://t.co/1XwjRLJwEJ— TMZ (@TMZ) October 30, 2026
Howard has been vocal about stepping away from Hollywood, telling Extra not long ago that he’s done with acting, so this isn’t a man chasing a comeback role. He’s also never been shy about saying the quiet part out loud, a trait that made him a fan favorite and a headline magnet. Don’t forget he’s played Black history in the movies too, including a part in the Shirley Chisholm biopic about the first Black woman to make a major-party run for president.
So we’ll put it to you. If Terrence Howard really did throw his hat in the ring with reparations leading the way, would you give him your vote, or is this just a good soundbite from a man with a lot to say? Sound off in the comments below!