Renowned actor Denzel Washington, a celebrated figure in Hollywood with multiple Academy Award recognitions, recently shared a candid perspective on the value of these accolades. Despite having two Oscar wins and numerous nominations, Washington emphasized his indifference towards these honors. His recent comments highlight a conscious focus on meaningful, rewarding work over the pursuit of awards. This approach provides an insightful look into the mindset of a Hollywood veteran prioritizing legacy over accolades.
Washington, who has two Oscar wins for “Glory” and “Training Day,” spoke with “Jake’s Takes” during his “Highest 2 Lowest” press tour, expressing that accolades like the Academy Awards do not influence his career choices.
“I don’t do it for Oscars. I don’t care about that kind of stuff,” Washington noted. “I’ve been at this a long time, and there’s time when I won and shouldn’t have won and then didn’t win and should’ve won. Man gives the award. God gives the reward.”
He further asserted, “I’m not that interested in Oscars. People ask me, ‘Where do I keep it?’ Well, next to the other one. I’m not bragging! 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, the actor was notably absent from the list of Oscar nominees for best supporting actor in “Gladiator II.” However, Washington was unfazed by this omission. In a statement to The New York Times, he sarcastically remarked, “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.”
This attitude of not getting caught up in awards has been a consistent theme in Washington’s philosophy. His “Training Day” co-star, Ethan Hawke, recalled Washington’s perspective during an appearance on Max’s “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?” when Hawke lost the best supporting actor award. Washington told him, “It’s better that you didn’t win. Losing was better.”
Hawke elaborated, saying, “You don’t want an award to improve your status. You want to improve the award’s status. That’s the way he thinks. That’s what I’m talking about playing with Babe Ruth. The Academy Award has more power, because Denzel has a couple. It didn’t elevate who he was.”
“Highest 2 Lowest” is set to premiere in select theaters on August 15, courtesy of A24 and Apple Studios, and will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5. Watch Washington’s complete interview on “Jake’s Takes” in the video below.
