Denzel Washington, a two-time Academy Award winner, recently shared his candid perspective on the significance of Oscars, stating he is “not that interested” in them despite his notable achievements. This insight comes amid his upcoming project with Spike Lee, generating renewed attention to the actor’s career and accolades.
Washington, who won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 1990 for Glory and the Best Actor Oscar in 2002 for Training Day, expressed a nonchalant attitude toward the ceremonies. “Man gives the award, God gives the reward,” he remarked in a recent interview, emphasizing a distinction between external recognition and personal fulfillment. With seven additional nominations, including the much-discussed snub for his role in Malcolm X in 1993, Washington’s viewpoint reflects decades of experience in navigating Hollywood’s awards landscape.
The actor conveyed that while the Oscars hold industry prestige, they hold limited personal value to him, especially considering life’s impermanence. He explained, “On my last day, it ain’t going to do me a bit of good,” highlighting that trophies are less relevant than lived experience. This perspective offers a sober counterpoint to the fanfare that usually surrounds award recognition, underscoring Washington’s grounded approach.
Currently, Washington stars in Highest 2 Lowest, a contemporary reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic High and Low, directed by Spike Lee. The film features an ensemble cast including Jeffrey Wright, ASAP Rocky, and Ice Spice, and is now playing in theaters before its Apple TV Plus debut set for September 5. This project signals Washington’s continued commitment to diverse, challenging roles beyond the awards spotlight.