Denzel Washington, the iconic actor whose career spans decades, is embracing significant personal changes as he journeys toward his 70th birthday. Featured on the cover of the Winter issue of Esquire, Washington confesses to feeling dissatisfied with how he looked at recent Academy Awards events, prompting him to take action for his health and well-being.
Reflecting on his appearance during the Academy Awards for Macbeth, Washington candidly shared, “I was looking at pictures of myself and [wife of more than 40 years,] Pauletta at the Academy Awards... and I’m just looking fat, with this dyed hair.” This moment of self-reflection was pivotal for Washington, driving him to declare, “Those days are over, man.”
After realizing he needed to prioritize his fitness, the renowned actor received support from musician and friend Lenny Kravitz. “My good friend, my little brother, Lenny Kravitz, said, ‘D, I wanna hook you up with a trainer,’” Washington recounted. This intervention led to Washington beginning his fitness training with the help of the trainer Kravitz connected him with back in February 2022.
Washington has made considerable headway, managing to lose weight and strengthen his physique as he works toward achieving his goal of 185 pounds. “I’m now 190-something pounds on my way to 185... I feel like I’m getting strong. Strong is important,” he asserted. The actor emphasizes the importance of strength and health at this stage of his life, showcasing not just physical transformation but also mental clarity.
Along with his physical transformation, Washington also opened up about his sobriety. After years of alcohol consumption—characterized by the extensive collection of wine he amassed, including $4,000 bottles—he made the life-changing decision to quit drinking at the age of 60. “I stopped at 60 and I haven’t had a thimble’s worth since,” he informed readers, proudly marking this significant milestone as he approaches ten years of sobriety this December.
Washington reflected on his drinking habits, reminiscing about how he downplayed his relationship with alcohol. “Wine was my thing, and now I was popping $4,000 bottles just because that's what was left... I’d drink them both over the course of the day.” His empowering narrative of recovery serves as both inspiration and caution to those grappling with similar struggles, showcasing the actor's determination to maintain his health as he ages.
Esquire also highlighted Washington’s approach to dining, indicating he has made dietary changes alongside his workout regimen instituted by his trainer, who not only assists with physical training but also curates his meals. “He makes the meals for me and we’re training...” Washington explained. The holistic approach suggests he is committed to adapting all aspects of his life for the sake of health and vitality.
Beyond fitness and sobriety, Washington shares insights about his family life, particularly during the winter holiday season. The actor revealed the importance of family traditions, such as their secret Santa letter-writing ritual. He noted, “One of my kids still writes letters to Santa,” adding to the warmth of his family life.
With the holidays approaching, Washington values these moments of connection, fostering love and joy within his family home—proving he is not just the star on screen but also a devoted family man. This balance of personal growth, love for family, and professional endeavors creates the narrative of Washington’s life as he continues to redefine what it means to grow older gracefully.
Stepping forward with hopeful anticipation, Washington reflects on his life as he enters this new chapter. “Things are opening up for me now — like being 70. It’s real. And it’s okay. This is the last chapter — if I get another 30, what do I want to do?” His introspective approach signals not just readiness for what lies ahead but also contentment with the decisions he has made and continues to embrace.
