Denzel Washington's illustrious career continues to inspire audiences as he preps for his role in the highly anticipated film 'Gladiator II.' The celebrated actor's reflections during various interviews shed light on his thoughts about race, his reluctance to fit neatly within Hollywood's traditional mold, and his remarkable contributions to both acting and directing.
Washington, who has been prominent on the film scene for decades, initially expressed frustration about being continuously compared to the legendary Sidney Poitier. Speaking with Ed Bradley for '60 Minutes' back in 1999, Washington said, "And the reason was, I said, you know, isn't it a shame there's only one person to be compared to? You know, I would almost be insulted by this." He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the contributions of other Black actors who have paved the way.
Reflecting on his career choices, Washington mentioned his experiences with romantic films, saying, "I'm not offered any," during the same interview. He attributed this to the financial aspects of the film industry, stating, "I think if it was a love story with myself and a Black woman, it's not big business in Hollywood." That candid admission shines light on the complex, often racially charged dynamics at play within the entertainment world.
Five years later, Washington had transitioned to performing on Broadway, where he took on the classic role of Brutus in Shakespeare's 'Julius Caesar.' "I thought it was a great opportunity to get back on the stage, to get back to my roots," he remarked to Bradley about his thoughts on returning to theater. The stage provided Washington with not just acting challenges, but also opportunities to direct, as seen with his directorial debut, 'Antwone Fisher.'
By 2016, Washington had made significant strides, boasting roles in major films such as 'The Equalizer' and 'American Gangster.' During another insightful conversation with Bill Whitaker, he tackled themes of cultural identity, stating, "I'm sure Scorsese could have directed 'Schindler's List.' And Spielberg probably could have directed 'Goodfellas.'" Here, Washington highlighted the need for cultural representation and authenticity, underscoring how different backgrounds contribute to storytelling.
Washington's impactful statements resonate even more when considering his approach to directing 'Fences,' which he described as not just a race issue, but cultural specificity—something he truly understands. Washington explained, "I know what it smells like when hair is being hot-combed on a Sunday morning... There’s a smell that's specific to our culture, I think." This insight not only reflects his depth of character but also his commitment to authenticity.
Despite denouncing superhero films as not fitting his aesthetic, Washington's versatility continues to resonate. He explained, "I guess you can cultivate it to a degree, but fundamentally, I'm just trying to be the best actor I can be." His ability to maintain integrity amid the industry’s pressures is evident.
Coming full circle with his career, Washington at nearly 70 years old is gearing up for what he calls the biggest film yet—'Gladiator II,' where he stars as Macrinus, showcasing his enduring appeal and commitment to pushing the industry boundaries. His co-star Paul Mescal expressed his excitement, stating, "Every scene I did with him was never how I expected it to go," capturing the magical dynamic Washington creates on set.
Adding to his illustrious line of work, Washington will return to Broadway soon to star as Othello. This return signals not just his personal affinity for theater but reinforces his profile as one of the industry’s most versatile and respected talents.
From being recognized as one of Hollywood's finest actors to taking on the mantle of director and cultural commentator, Denzel Washington continues to evolve, defying categorization and transcending the limitations often placed on actors of color. His unique perspective on acting, race, and culture not only elevates his performances but also enriches the cinematic experiences of audiences worldwide. Truly, Washington's legacy is still being written as he embraces every new challenge, inspiring generations to come.