Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington recently expressed his growing weariness with movies and the Hollywood industry. In a candid interview, Washington admitted that he no longer watches films, explaining that after spending so many years immersed in film production, his passion for simply consuming movies has diminished. This revelation was shared during a conversation with GQ, where he stated,
I don’t watch movies, man. I really don’t,
and added,
I’m just being honest with you! I don’t watch movies! I don’t go to the movies. I don’t watch movies…I’m tired of movies.
When pressed on whether his fatigue stems from his prolific career in film, Washington acknowledged this possibility, saying, probably, as he has worked on numerous projects over the years.
Washington’s Views on Awards and Hollywood Recognition
This is not the first instance where Washington has voiced discontent with certain aspects of the entertainment world. Earlier in the year, he voiced skepticism about the significance of acting awards, particularly the Oscars. During an appearance on JAKE’S TAKES, he remarked,
I don’t do it for Oscars. I don’t care about that kind of stuff,
explaining that his perspective has evolved over a long career. He added,
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 also spoke about the temporary nature of awards, emphasizing their limited importance by stating,
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.
Turning Toward Faith and Personal Reflection
Rather than focusing on awards or Hollywood acclaim, Washington is concentrating more on his spiritual journey and faith. In an interview with Revolt, he shared that he’s currently in a period of introspection about his future. He mentioned contemplating retirement but is uncertain if that is his true path, noting,
figuring out what the future is. Been talking about retirement…I don’t know if that’s where God has been leading me, but it feels like He’s been telling me, ‘I got you where I want you.’
Washington’s spiritual focus was further highlighted in his advice to his younger self during an Extra interview, where he simple but powerfully said,
Pray more. That’s it. Pray more,
and emphasized the importance of prayer by adding,
That’s what I would tell that younger Denzel Washington. Pray more. Get on your knees more.
Sharing His Faith Journey Publicly
In 2024, Washington elaborated on his religious beliefs in an essay for Esquire. He affirmed the central place faith holds in his life by writing,
God is real. God is love. God is the only way. God is the true way. God blesses.
He went on to declare his mission to glorify God, stating,
It’s my job to lift God up, to give Him praise, to make sure that anyone and everyone I speak to the rest of my life understands that He is responsible for me,
and continued,
When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior. I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks.
How Washington’s Faith Shapes His Perspective on Hollywood Life
Unlike many actors who pursue accolades and recognition within the film industry, Washington’s priorities reflect a deeper commitment to his spiritual beliefs. His statements indicate a shift from Hollywood’s conventional markers of success toward a more personal and faith-driven outlook. This transformation lifts him above the typical entertainment industry mindset, focusing instead on what he describes as a divine purpose guiding his decisions moving forward.
His openness about feeling “tired of movies” and his disinterest in awards underline a significant realignment of values that could influence his future career choices, including whether he continues acting or chooses retirement as suggested.
As Washington’s focus continues to turn inward, the entertainment world may see less of the actor who has long been celebrated for his compelling on-screen performances. Instead, viewers and followers may witness someone embracing spiritual fulfillment beyond Hollywood’s glamour and demands.
