At 70 years old Denzel Washington says he isn’t chasing Oscars and believes that while awards are given by people only God can deliver true reward

14 August 2025

Denzel Washington in 'Highest 2 Lowest'. David Lee/A24

Denzel Washington, a figure whose presence in film spans more than four decades, recently offered a refreshingly grounded take on fame and prestige. In a conversation with Entertainment Weekly and Jake’s Takes ahead of the release of his new film Highest 2 Lowest, he made it clear that awards like the Oscars don’t steer his passion for acting. According to Washington, “I don’t do it for Oscars, I really don’t care about that kind of stuff,” bearing evident distance between his love for the craft and the glitter of awards.

The poor value he places on accolades stems from a belief that life’s true merit isn’t measured by statuettes. He reflects, “There’s times I won and shouldn’t have won and didn’t win and should’ve won man gives the award, God gives the reward.” His perspective is unsentimental but emotionally resonant, a humble spotlight on the gap that often exists between applause and meaning.

That gap isn’t lost on his fans or colleagues. Washington who has earned two Oscars across ten nominations lightheartedly joked about their limited relevance. When asked where he stores them he quipped, “Next to the other one.” He further added, “On my last day, they won’t do me a bit of good,” a quiet reminder that legacy isn’t built by bronze figures but by presence and purpose.

Washington’s philosophy didn’t emerge in a vacuum. His long career includes unforgettable roles as Private Silas Trip in Glory and Detective Alonzo Harris in Training Day. Both delivered awards and acclaim, yet he remains skeptical of their weight. With a focus on spirituality, legacy, and the act of storytelling itself, he avoids the trap of believing that one or two shiny trophies define a life’s work.

When asked if it stung to be snubbed once more for his turn in Gladiator II, Washington’s reaction was as steady as it was telling. He said he was onstage performing Othello on Broadway, smiling at the disconnect between industry recognition and your real life. There’s mutual respect at play: great performance doesn’t always come with golden validation, and Washington’s humble response speaks volumes about aging in an industry obsessed with accolades.

At this juncture in his life and career, Washington’s priorities have shifted. He’s less the silver-screen gladiator and more the veteran reflecting on art and spirituality. He emphasizes the actor’s medium of theater, his roots in Mount Vernon, and the simple truth that creative fulfillment doesn’t require validation.

His comments arrive beside the launch of Highest 2 Lowest, a collaboration with Spike Lee, already stirring buzz ahead of its theatrical release on August 15 and Apple TV+ debut on September 5.

This exchange also mirrors broader industry introspection. Halle Berry, in a recent documentary, famously questioned whether her 2002 Oscar win actually advanced representation. Washington’s sentiments echo that skepticism: awards have gravity, but their lasting power is debatable.

Beyond Hollywood flash and television cameras, Washington invites audiences to appreciate substance more than spectacle. At its core, his message is timeless: accolades are ephemeral, but what you say and do along the way that’s what touches people.