Top 50 Interesting Facts about Denzel Washington
For more than 40 years, Denzel Washington has been a well-known American actor, producer, and director. He has been praised as one of the best performers of his generation and is known for his strong on-screen and on-stage performances. He was actually chosen the best actor of the twenty-first century by The New York Times in 2020.
Two Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, a Tony Award, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the AFI Life Achievement Award are just a few of the many honors Washington has received. Additionally, he has been nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards. The NBC hospital drama St. Elsewhere (1982–1988) was his first significant hit, and A Soldier’s Story (1984) marked his cinematic debut.
Glory (1989) earned Washington his first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while Training Day (2001) earned him the Best Actor Oscar for his legendary portrayal of a corrupt cop. For movies like Cry Freedom (1987), Malcolm X (1992), The Hurricane (1999), Flight (2012), Fences (2016), and The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021), he received more Oscar nominations during his career.
Washington, who is well-known for his versatility, has starred in a number of movies, such as The Equalizer trilogy (2014–2023), American Gangster (2007), Remember the Titans (2000), and Philadelphia (1993). In addition, he has directed movies such as Fences (2016), which earned him a Tony Award for Best Actor in its 2010 Broadway revival, and Antwone Fisher (2002).
His reputation as a legendary character in theater and cinema is further cemented by his Broadway credits, which also include A Raisin in the Sun (2014) and The Iceman Cometh (2018).
Here’s a deep dive into 50 interesting facts about Denzel Washington that reveal the man behind the legendary actor.
Early Life and Education
Born into Humble Beginnings
Denzel Washington was born on December 28, 1954, in Mount Vernon, New York. His mother was a beauty parlor owner, and his father was a Pentecostal minister.The Influence of His Parents
Denzel credits his parents for instilling discipline and a strong work ethic in him. His mother, especially, was a driving force in keeping him focused on education and morality.Divorce Shaped His Childhood
When Denzel was 14 years old, his parents divorced. He often talks about how this event was pivotal in shaping his character and outlook on life.Military School Changed His Life
After his parents’ divorce, Denzel started getting into trouble. His mother sent him to the Oakland Military Academy in New Windsor, New York, which Denzel says saved him from heading down a bad path.Originally Wanted to Be a Doctor
Before venturing into acting, Denzel Washington initially pursued a career in medicine. He even attended Fordham University as a pre-med student.Theater Came Later in College
While at Fordham, Denzel switched his major several times, eventually graduating with a degree in Drama and Journalism. He discovered his passion for acting during a summer camp job.Graduate of the American Conservatory Theater
Denzel continued to hone his craft by attending the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco, which helped him develop the discipline needed for a professional acting career.
Career Beginnings
First Professional Acting Role
Denzel Washington’s first significant acting role was in the TV movie Wilma in 1977. He played the role of Robert Eldridge, Wilma Rudolph’s husband.Breakthrough in St. Elsewhere
Washington got his big break on the TV medical drama St. Elsewhere, where he played Dr. Phillip Chandler. He starred in the show from 1982 to 1988.Early Film Roles Didn’t Guarantee Stardom
Though Washington started making waves on television, his early film roles, including Carbon Copy (1981) and A Soldier’s Story (1984), didn’t bring immediate superstardom.
Major Film Achievements
First Oscar Nomination for Cry Freedom
Denzel Washington received his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role as anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko in Cry Freedom (1987).First Oscar Win for Glory
Denzel won his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his portrayal of Private Trip in Glory, a film about the first all-Black regiment in the Civil War.First Lead Actor Oscar for Training Day
In 2002, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance as corrupt detective Alonzo Harris in Training Day (2001).Only the Second Black Actor to Win Best Actor
Denzel became the second Black actor to win the Oscar for Best Actor, after Sidney Poitier, who won in 1964 for Lilies of the Field.Numerous Academy Award Nominations
Over the course of his career, Denzel Washington has earned a total of nine Academy Award nominations, making him one of the most nominated Black actors in Oscar history.Starring in Malcolm X Solidified His Legacy
Denzel’s portrayal of civil rights leader Malcolm X in Spike Lee’s 1992 film Malcolm X is considered one of his best performances. He received an Oscar nomination for Best Actor for the role.Worked Multiple Times with Spike Lee
Denzel has collaborated with director Spike Lee on several films, including Mo’ Better Blues (1990), He Got Game (1998), and Inside Man (2006), showcasing their dynamic working relationship.Directorial Debut with Antwone Fisher
In 2002, Washington made his directorial debut with Antwone Fisher, a biographical drama about a troubled Navy sailor. He also starred in the film.Success in Action Films
Aside from dramas, Denzel has had significant success in action films such as The Equalizer series, Man on Fire (2004), and The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009).Versatile Roles Across Genres
Denzel’s career spans a variety of genres, from courtroom dramas like Philadelphia (1993) to thrillers such as The Bone Collector (1999) and biopics like The Hurricane (1999).
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Married to Pauletta Washington Since 1983
Denzel met his wife, Pauletta Pearson, on the set of his first TV film, Wilma. They married in 1983 and have four children together.He Renewed His Wedding Vows in South Africa
In 1995, Denzel and Pauletta renewed their wedding vows in South Africa. The ceremony was officiated by none other than Archbishop Desmond Tutu.Committed to Family
Despite his busy career, Denzel has always prioritized his family. He and Pauletta are known for their close-knit family life, and Denzel frequently speaks about the importance of fatherhood.All His Children Are Involved in the Arts
All of Denzel’s children—John David, Katia, Olivia, and Malcolm—are involved in the entertainment industry. His eldest, John David Washington, has followed in his father’s footsteps as an actor.Active Philanthropist
Denzel Washington is known for his charitable work, particularly his involvement with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He has been the national spokesperson for the organization for over 25 years.Donated Millions to Charitable Causes
Over the years, Denzel has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including educational institutions, children’s charities, and organizations supporting underprivileged communities.Supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Denzel has been a strong advocate for HBCUs, often donating to these institutions and speaking about their importance in empowering young Black students.Mentor to Many Young Actors
Denzel has served as a mentor to many younger actors in Hollywood, including Michael B. Jordan and Chadwick Boseman, offering them advice and support as they navigate their careers.Friendship with Oprah Winfrey
Denzel shares a long-standing friendship with media mogul Oprah Winfrey. The two have collaborated on various projects and often support each other’s philanthropic efforts.Deep Religious Faith
Denzel has always been open about his Christian faith. He attributes much of his success to his belief in God and regularly attends church services.
Awards and Recognition
Lifetime Achievement Awards
Denzel has received several lifetime achievement awards, including the AFI Life Achievement Award and the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, recognizing his contributions to film.Named the Greatest Actor of the 21st Century
In 2020, The New York Times named Denzel Washington the greatest actor of the 21st century, a testament to his sustained excellence and impact on the film industry.The Most Influential Black Actor in History
Many critics and historians regard Denzel Washington as the most influential Black actor in the history of cinema, citing his ability to transcend racial barriers in Hollywood.Has a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
In 1991, Denzel Washington was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, recognizing his achievements in the entertainment industry.Named People’s Sexiest Man Alive
In 1996, Denzel was named People magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive,” becoming the first Black actor to receive this title.Two-Time Golden Globe Winner
Washington has won two Golden Globe Awards: one for Glory in 1989 and another for The Hurricane in 1999.Frequent Oscar Snubs
Despite his many accolades, Denzel has been snubbed for an Oscar on multiple occasions, including for his performances in Malcolm X and Fences.BAFTA Award for Malcolm X
Though he didn’t win the Oscar for Malcolm X, Denzel did win the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of the iconic leader.
Interesting Tidbits and Legacy
Turned Down Iconic Roles
Denzel turned down several major roles over the years, including Brad Pitt’s role in Se7en (1995) and George Clooney’s role in Michael Clayton (2007).Has Never Done a Sequel Until The Equalizer
Denzel had a long-standing rule against sequels. The Equalizer 2 (2018) marked the first time in his career that he reprised a role for a sequel.Fascinated by Westerns
Washington grew up watching Westerns and always wanted to star in one. His wish came true when he played a lead role in The Magnificent Seven (2016).Directed Fences and Starred in It
Denzel directed and starred in Fences (2016), a film adaptation of August Wilson’s play, earning another Oscar nomination for his intense portrayal of Troy Maxson.Collaborated Multiple Times with Ethan Hawke
Denzel Washington has shared the screen with Ethan Hawke in Training Day and The Magnificent Seven, forming a memorable on-screen partnership.Avid Basketball Fan
Washington is a huge basketball fan and can often be seen courtside at NBA games. He supports the Los Angeles Lakers.Supports the Arts
In addition to acting, Denzel is a supporter of the arts, often contributing to theater and music programs, particularly those focused on nurturing young talent.Came from a Military Family
Though he never served in the military himself, Denzel’s father served in World War II, and Denzel grew up with a deep respect for the armed forces, which has informed some of his film roles.Active in Civil Rights Advocacy
Denzel has been involved in civil rights advocacy for much of his life, using his platform to speak out against racial injustice and to promote equality.Has Received Several Honorary Degrees
Denzel Washington has been awarded honorary degrees from several universities, including Fordham University, Morehouse College, and the University of Pennsylvania, recognizing his contributions to the arts and society.First Movie Role Came by Accident
Washington’s first movie role in Carbon Copy (1981) came after he happened to meet an agent who saw potential in him, despite having no film experience at the time.Remains Humble Despite Success
Despite his fame and success, Denzel Washington remains grounded, often crediting his faith, family, and upbringing for keeping him humble.