Denzel Washington, widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, has revealed an unexpected personal quirk: he has been a devoted Dallas Cowboys fan since the 1960s. Despite being born in New York and currently residing in Los Angeles, Washington’s allegiance to the Cowboys stands out, especially considering the team‘s controversial reputation and ownership under Jerry Jones.
Washington’s commitment to the Dallas Cowboys is striking, given the geographic disconnect. New York offers iconic teams like the Giants and Jets, yet Washington chose the Cowboys, a team often criticized within the NFL. Even more surprising is his continued support in spite of widespread dissatisfaction with the team’s direction under owner Jerry Jones, an Arkansas native known for prioritizing business interests over the fan experience. Washington openly discussed his mixed feelings on a recent appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s show.
Denzel Washington’s Complex View on Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones
During the interview on Stephen A. Smith’s talk show, Washington addressed his conflicting feelings about Jerry Jones, expressing respect for Jones but criticism of his leadership. He said,
“I don’t like what (Jones) is doing … I respect the owner, but I don’t like what it’s doing to the fans,”
highlighting a disconnect between Jones’s business decisions and fan loyalty. Washington went further to suggest that Jones’s focus is less on supporting fans and more on financial gain. Despite this critique, Washington remains visibly proud of his fandom, affirming,
“At the end of the day, I’m still gonna wear my hat with the star on it.”
The Unexpected Choice for a New Yorker: Why the Cowboys?
For many, Washington’s choice is baffling. As a native New Yorker, the natural allegiance would lean toward local football teams like the Giants or Jets. The Cowboys, however, are often seen as divisive within the NFL community, carrying a reputation marred by poor seasons and the polarizing figure of Jerry Jones. There is no clear geographic justification for Washington’s preference, making his allegiance all the more perplexing to fans and observers alike. It’s a rare example of passion overriding local loyalty and sports rivalry.
What Makes Washington’s Loyalty Significant?
Denzel Washington’s long-term dedication to the Dallas Cowboys offers an unusual insight into fan identity that transcends regional boundaries and team performance. While many may shift their sports loyalties based on success or proximity, Washington’s consistent support—even through decades of criticism toward the franchise’s management—demonstrates a deeply personal connection. This steadfast allegiance may challenge conventional ideas about sports fandom and identity.
Washington’s mixture of respect and frustration toward Jerry Jones also mirrors a broader narrative felt by many fans: love for a team often coexists with disappointment in leadership decisions. His candid remarks bring attention to how complicated fan loyalty can be, especially under ownership scrutinized for decisions driven by profit rather than fan engagement.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Fans and Celebrities Alike
The revelation about Denzel Washington as a Dallas Cowboys fan serves as a reminder that public figures can hold surprising and sometimes controversial personal interests. For Cowboys followers and NFL observers, Washington’s stance may ignite fresh conversations about loyalty, identity, and the impact of team ownership on fan culture. Fans might find themselves reflecting on their own allegiances and what those truly mean amidst changing team fortunes and leadership challenges.
As Washington continues to wear the iconic star emblem, his example may inspire others to embrace their sports passions unapologetically, regardless of geography or public opinion. In an era when loyalty is often questioned, Washington’s decades-long connection to the Dallas Cowboys stands as a compelling case of personal conviction.
