Actor Denzel Washington spoke openly this week about his perspective on awards, particularly the Oscars, emphasizing a deeper, spiritual viewpoint. In an interview on August 11 with Jake’s Takes, Washington made clear that he is not motivated by the pursuit of Oscars, stating,
Man gives the award. God gives the reward.
His comments surfaced while promoting Highest 2 Lowest, a new film directed by Spike Lee and co-starring Jeffrey Wright, set to release in theaters on August 15 and on Apple TV+ in early September.
With ten Oscar nominations and two wins for Glory (1990) and Training Day (2002), Washington’s attitude reflects a long-standing indifference toward awards ceremonies, focusing instead on the craft itself.
Washington Prioritizes Acting Over Awards
Washington framed his thoughts on accolades through a spiritual lens, explaining that his motivation lies beyond trophies. He said,
I don’t do it for Oscars. I really don’t care about that kind of stuff,
acknowledging the unpredictability of awards by adding,
There’s times I won and shouldn’t have won … and didn’t win and should’ve won.
When asked about his Oscar statuettes, he humorously replied that he keeps them “next to the other one.”
He reiterated his lack of interest in Oscars, noting,
I’m not that interested in Oscars.
When the interviewer remarked,
I don’t think God asks how many Oscars you have,
Washington responded with a laugh,
He might go, ‘That’s why I gave you an extra week.’
Washington also highlighted his theater roots as the foundation of his acting career, referencing his upbringing in Mount Vernon, New York, and his recent return to the stage in Broadway’s Othello.
Handling Oscar Snubs with Humor and Wisdom
Despite being overlooked for an Oscar nomination for Gladiator II, Washington’s reaction showed no bitterness. Speaking in February 2025 to the New York Times, he responded with a mix of humor and detachment: Awww. Oh, I’m so upset. His tone reinforced his philosophy of viewing awards with balance.
He elaborated on his evolving outlook:
Listen, I’ve been around too long. I’ve got — I don’t wanna say other fish to fry, but there’s a reality at this age,
adding,
The beginning of wisdom is understanding. I’m getting wiser, working on talking less and learning to understand more — and that’s exciting.
Beyond his wins for Glory and Training Day, Washington’s nominations include roles in Cry Freedom, Malcolm X, The Hurricane, Flight, Fences, Roman J. Israel, Esq., and The Tragedy of Macbeth.
At 70 years old, Washington has hinted at stepping back from acting. In a November 2024 interview with Australia Today, he shared,
I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make. Probably not that many.
Looking Ahead: Legacy Beyond Awards
Denzel Washington’s comments highlight a grounded and spiritual approach to his craft and the recognition it may bring. By distancing himself from the significance of awards like the Oscars and emphasizing personal growth and wisdom, he sets an example of focusing on the meaningful aspects of art and life. As he nears the later stages of his career, his legacy remains tied to his contributions to film and theatre rather than the accolades alone.
