Despite earning nine Academy Award nominations and winning two Oscars—Best Supporting Actor for Glory and Best Actor for Training Day—Denzel Washington revealed that awards do not influence his career choices. Speaking during his Highest 2 Lowest press tour on Jake’s Takes, Washington made clear that winning Oscars is not a goal for him, valuing personal fulfillment over accolades.
I don’t do it for Oscars. I don’t care about that kind of stuff,
Washington stated.
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.
Washington’s Perspective on the Value of Awards
When asked about how he views his physical Oscar trophies, Washington downplayed their significance.
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.
His remarks emphasized his belief that worldly honors hold limited meaning at life’s end.
Reaction to Being Overlooked for Recent Oscar Honor
Earlier this year, Washington faced what many described as a major Oscar snub, failing to receive a nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Gladiator II. However, he remained unfazed by the omission. When interviewed by The New York Times, Washington responded sarcastically:
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.
Long-Held Views on Awards Beyond Recognition
Washington’s attitude on awards has been consistent throughout his career. Actor Ethan Hawke, who co-starred with Washington in Training Day, shared an insight from Oscar night when Hawke lost in the Best Supporting Actor category. Washington told him,
It’s better that you didn’t win. Losing was better.
Hawke elaborated on Washington’s philosophy:
You don’t want an award to improve your status. You want to improve the award’s status. That’s the way he thinks,
he said.
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.
Upcoming Film Release and Viewing Details
Washington’s latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, is scheduled to open in select theaters on August 15, produced by A24 and Apple Studios. The movie will later become available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5. Fans can watch Washington’s complete interview on Jake’s Takes to hear more of his thoughts on acting and awards.
