Denzel Washington has revealed that his acting choices are not influenced by a desire for more Oscars. With two-time Academy Awards, the acclaimed actor explained that awards hold little weight in his decision-making, as his focus remains on the work itself.
Denzel Washington shares his thoughts about Oscars
While promoting his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, Denzel Washington sat down with Jake’s Takes and got candid about his perspective on Oscar awards.
Washington made it clear that his creative decisions have never been influenced by the prospect of winning an Oscar. He said, “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 were times when I won and shouldn’t have won and then didn’t win and should’ve won.” The actor added, “Man gives the award. God gives the reward.”
The 70-year-old actor went on to say that he places little sentimental value on the Oscars themselves. “I’m not that interested in Oscars. People ask me, ‘Where do I keep it?’ Well, next to the other one,” he said with a laugh. Washington added, “I’m not bragging — I’m just telling you how I feel about it. On my last day, [Oscars] aren’t going to do me a bit of good.”
Earlier this year, Washington’s name was notably absent from the 2025 Academy Award nominations, despite widespread speculation that he would receive a Best Supporting Actor nomination for Gladiator II. It was labeled one of the year’s biggest snubs, but Washington responded humorously.
Speaking to The New York Times about the situation, he replied, “Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset. I’m happy for all that did, and I’m happy with what I’m doing. Listen, I’ve been around too long. I’m getting wiser, working on talking less and learning to understand more.” Washington’s career boasts numerous Academy Award nominations and two wins: best supporting actor for Glory (1989) and best actor for Training Day (2001).
His upcoming project, Highest 2 Lowest, will release on August 15 in theaters in limited capacity. Further, it will have its streaming debut on Apple TV+ on September 5.
