Denzel Washington commands attention wherever he goes. As he approaches his 70th birthday on December 28, the two-time Oscar winner reflects on his legendary career and embarks on a new chapter—one marked by groundbreaking roles, mentoring new talent, and prioritizing health.
Washington recently spoke with Variety’s Awards Circuit Podcast about his personal and professional journey. “It’s been a two-year process to get healthier,” he shared. “At the Oscars, I looked at myself and decided it was time for a change. With the help of trainer Doug Romero, I’ve made progress. This is my birthday gift to myself—feeling good when I look in the mirror.”
In Ridley Scott’s upcoming “Gladiator II,” Washington takes on the role of Macrinus, a former slave turned scheming villain. Reuniting with Scott after their collaboration on “American Gangster” (2007), Washington described the trust he places in the veteran director. “With Ridley, you’re in it. You don’t overthink. You trust him to craft the final product,” he said.
The film also features rising stars like Paul Mescal and Fred Hechinger. Washington is energized by working alongside younger actors. “Ridley’s casting is impeccable,” he said. “Fred and Paul bring such vitality to the set. My role is to support and guide them where I can.”
Beyond acting, Washington continues to excel as a director. His critically acclaimed work includes “Fences” (2016), where he became the first Black director to earn an acting nomination for a film he helmed. Most recently, he produced “The Piano Lesson,” directed by his son Malcolm Washington. “Watching Malcolm’s growth as a filmmaker makes me incredibly proud,” he said. “Adapting August Wilson’s work is no small feat, but Malcolm delivered.”
Denzel’s pride in his family extends beyond professional achievements. At a recent event, he eagerly shared a trailer for “The Piano Lesson” that Malcolm edited himself. “Look at that!” he said with fatherly pride. “Isn’t it great?”
As for his future projects, Washington will star in “High and Low Man,” a collaboration with longtime partner Spike Lee. “Spike’s vision is extraordinary,” Washington said. “I’ll be reviewing the cut soon, and I know it’ll be special.”
While rumors about “Black Panther 3” swirl, Washington remains tight-lipped. “Ryan Coogler is brilliant,” he said. “I apologized for letting slip about the project. He’s humble and full of ideas. Whatever he writes, I’ll read.”
Reflecting on his career, Washington acknowledges the challenges he faced as a Black actor. “Roles for us weren’t always great,” he said. “We were often sidelined. But things have changed, and I’ve had opportunities to tell meaningful stories.”
With nine Oscar nominations and two wins, Washington’s legacy is unmatched. Yet, he’s not ready to slow down. “Retirement isn’t imminent, but it’ll come eventually. Until then, I’m focused on working with great directors and sharing impactful stories,” he said.
As he approaches his milestone birthday, Washington prioritizes health and family. “I’ve been training, eating better, and simplifying my life,” he said. “Clearing out 40 years’ worth of stuff was liberating. Watching my family grow is the greatest reward.”
Also in this Awards Circuit episode, actor Jharrel Jerome discusses his role in “Unstoppable,” and the team analyzes the Golden Globes nominations and emerging Oscar contenders.
