Denzel Washington revealed the correct way to pronounce his name during a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. While many moviegoers and fans have said it as Děn-ZĚL, the actor clarified that his name is actually pronounced with emphasis on the first syllable, sounding like DĚN-zǝl, where the second syllable rhymes with “lull.” This distinction reflects how Washington himself says his name and how it was originally intended.
Origin of the Name and Family Background
Washington explained that he is actually Denzel Hayes Washington Jr., named after his father, Denzel Hayes Washington Sr. The actor shared that both he and his father would respond when their mother, the late Lennis Washington, called out “Denzel.” It was Lennis who eventually settled on the current pronunciation, saying, “From now on, you’re Denzel.” This change from the original pronunciation is how the name became familiar to the public.
Washington’s Career and Reflections on Acting
At 70 years old, Denzel Washington has been a leading figure in Hollywood for decades, with a career spanning back to the late 1970s. Despite his long tenure, he recently expressed feeling fatigued with the volume of movies he has done, indicating he has appeared in “too many” films. In a discussion with his costar A$AP Rocky and director Spike Lee, Washington mentioned he is considering retirement but would still take roles that genuinely interest him.
Collaboration with Spike Lee and Future Plans
Spike Lee shared that their latest project, a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa‘s 1963 crime film High and Low, might be Washington’s last movie together. The two have previously worked on four films, including Mo’ Better Blues, Malcolm X, He Got Game, and Inside Man. Washington has indicated his intention to retire after a few more films but will remain selective about the projects he accepts.
Significance of Correct Name Pronunciation
Washington’s revelation highlights how even well-known public figures can have their names commonly mispronounced for many years. Correctly saying the Denzel Washington name pronunciation not only honors his personal identity but also connects fans more closely to the actor behind the roles. This insight into his heritage and career also adds depth to understanding the man known for his powerful performances on screen.
“And this is how you know they were named after me. My name is not pronounced Děn-ZĚL,” —Denzel Washington
“My name is pronounced DĚN-zǝl,” —Denzel Washington
“I’m Denzel Jr. My father‘s Denzel Hayes Washington Sr. I‘m Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. My mother would say, ‘Denzel,’ and we’d both show up.” —Denzel Washington
“So she said, ‘From now on, you’re Denzel.’ That’s how it got pronounced Denzel.” —Denzel Washington
“a level of interest for me.” —Denzel Washington
