After a tumultuous year marked by retirement rumors, fan disputes, and a public embrace of religion, Denzel Washington establishes a new record.
Hollywood retirement rumors swirled around 'Gladiator II' star Denzel Washington, 69.
Hollywood has been significantly influenced by Denzel Washington's remarkable career.
The 69-year-old actor broke a record with his 11th Golden Globe nomination for "Gladiator II," surpassing the previous record held by legendary actor Sidney Poitier, who was also a Black actor.
Macrinus, portrayed by Washington, has been nominated for best performance by a male actor in a supporting role in an action film.
In 2024, Washington left fans buzzing with a series of surprising moves, including teasing his retirement and becoming a minister.
Washington hinted at his Hollywood exit after wrapping up several movie projects.
On Australia's "Today" show in November, the Academy Award-winning actor revealed that he is almost finished with his career in Hollywood.
Washington stated, "At this stage in my career, it's all about the filmmaker for me."
"I'm only interested in working with the best. I'm not sure how many more films I'll make - probably not many. I want to do things I haven't done yet."
Washington discussed his upcoming roles, including his third portrayal of Othello on Broadway.
Besides the role of Carthaginian general Hannibal in an upcoming Netflix project, Steve McQueen film collaboration, and a part in the third "Black Panther" movie, Washington also booked other projects.
The actor declared that he will portray King Lear in a different film.
Washington remarked, "After that, I will retire."
Washington's retirement rumors caused his fans to panic, but he later clarified his comments in an interview.
"He informed BuzzFeed that he did not declare his intention to retire, stating that it must be of interest to him first. He revealed that his interest lies behind the camera, which is approximately five years away."
"Although it's challenging, I view life in three stages: learning, earning, and returning. Currently, I am in the latter stage."
In 2020, Washington was involved in a heated exchange with fans trying to capture his photo and obtain his autograph outside the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
In October, Samuel L. Jackson was honored at a film benefit attended by the "Training Day" actor.
Washington's evening took an awkward turn as he lashed out, despite arriving in good spirits and pausing to take photos with fans.
A group of fans seeking autographs caught Washington's attention as he entered the room.
In a video obtained by Planet Chronicle Digital, Washington is heard saying, "Put this down. I heard you. You talk about showing love and respect me."
In a heated exchange in NYC, Denzel Washington seemed to lash out at his fans.
"We always do," one fan responded.
Washington said, "Which part of 'I'll see you when I get out' don't y'all understand?"
"Another way is possible, I can do it both ways," he said before entering.
It's unclear what led to the exchange.
Meanwhile, the Hollywood actor can add ministry to his impressive resumé.
In December, Washington received his minister's license and assumed a new role in his life.
Bishop James Pullings Jr. baptized Washington at the Kelly Temple in New York City.
"After some time, I arrived... If God can accomplish this for me, then He can do anything for you," Washington stated in a video posted online. "The sky is the limit."
The bishop's wife, Esther Renee Burns Pullings, posted pictures of the occasion on Facebook.
"She shared photos of a beautiful service at The Historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ, where Bishop James Pullings Jr. baptized Minister Denzel Washington."
Previously, Washington acknowledged that discussing religion in the industry was not permitted.
""I am unafraid and the best I could do with what I've been given by my lord and savior," wrote the "Gladiator II" star for Esquire."
Washington stated, "I don't care about others' opinions. It's not possible to win Oscars, party, or speak that way in this town."
Hollywood Boulevard is not fashionable or sexy, but it exists in Hollywood. It's not talked about in this town, but people in Hollywood believe in it. What does Hollywood mean to you?
In 1982, Washington got his first major role in the medical drama "St. Elsewhere," which eventually led to his breakthrough in film and numerous nominations.
"Fences," "The Book of Eli," "Cry Freedom," and "Malcom X" are renowned films associated with Washington.
In an awkward encounter, King Charles meets Denzel Washington, the star of 'Gladiator II'.
During the "Gladiator II" premiere, King Charles III shared a memorable moment with Washington.
In November, the "Gladiator II" cast was greeted by King Charles at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square in London.
King Charles met with cast members, including Washington, Pedro Pascal, and Paul Mescal, as well as director Sir Ridley Scott during the meet and greet. Despite this, Washington seemed anxious when he encountered the royal monarch.
Washington smiled as he gave Charles a handshake, unsure if he was supposed to grab his hand or not.
"I’m just an awful man, you’ll see," Washington said, as he stumbled on his words. "I’m a lovely chap."
Washington, who has been in numerous films, was praised by King Charles as being fantastic.
Washington graciously replied, "Thank you, thank you."
This report was contributed to by Lauryn Overhultz and Christina Dugan Ramirez of Planet Chronicle Digital.
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