Denzel Washington, an iconic figure in cinema, has made headlines recently with his revelation that he no longer engages in watching films. During a segment for GQ, where he spoke alongside Highest 2 Lowest director Spike Lee and co-star A$AP Rocky, Washington candidly shared his perspective on the subject.
“I don’t watch movies, man. I really don’t,” Washington stated. “I’m just being honest with you! I don’t watch movies! I don’t go to the movies. I don’t watch movies… I’m tired of movies. Yeah.”
Following this, Lee prompted Washington to estimate how many films he has participated in throughout his career. Washington humorously responded, “Too many. I think 50!” This reflects the extensive filmography of an actor whose career spans several decades.
Washington’s acting journey commenced in 1981 with the film Carbon Copy. Since then, he has graced audiences with his performances in over 50 films, receiving critical acclaim and multiple accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the 1989 film Glory and Best Actor for the crime thriller Training Day in 2001.
His latest project, Highest 2 Lowest, showcases Washington as a powerful music mogul entangled in a life-or-death ethical dilemma involving a ransom plot. The film is currently in theaters and will become available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5.
Despite his numerous accomplishments, Washington expressed that he does not pursue roles for future accolades. In a recent interview, he stated, “I don’t do it for Oscars. I don’t care about that kind of stuff. I’ve been at this a long time, and there’s time when I won and shouldn’t have won and then didn’t win and should’ve won. Man gives the award. God gives the reward.” He further clarified that his focus lies beyond industry recognition, grounding his fulfillment in faith rather than awards.
Washington reiterated his stance on awards, saying, “On my last day, [Oscars] aren’t going to do me a bit of good,” emphasizing the transience of fame and its accolades.
He concluded the discussion humorously, saying in response to the interviewer’s comments about divine judgment, “He might go, ‘That’s why I gave you an extra week.’ [As] long as he says, ‘Now, get on up here,’ I’m all right.”
Washington’s insights illuminate not only his personal philosophy but also shed light on the complexities surrounding a career in Hollywood. As audiences eagerly await his upcoming projects, his perspective remains a refreshing take on the industry.
Based on reporting by Hollywood Reporter. Read the full story at Hollywood Reporter.