During the entire period of Denzel Washingtons Thanks to his illustrious career, the legendary actor continues to have a major impact in Hollywood.
While the 69-year-old actor received his 11th Golden Sphere nomination for his work in “Gladiator II”, he set a new record and became the black actor with the most nominations in the awards show’s history. He was previously tied with legendary actor Sidney Poitier.
Washington is nominated for Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role for his portrayal of Macrinus in the action film.
Meanwhile, Washington has sent fans into a frenzy in 2024 with some surprising moves. From teasing retirement to becoming a minister and everything in between, here’s a look at the Hollywood star’s year of surprises.
‘GLADIATOR II’ STAR DENZEL WASHINGTON HAS UNWORTHY MEETING WITH KING CHARLES
Hollywood actor Denzel Washington made major headlines in 2024, from receiving his eleventh Golden Globes nomination to sparking rumors of his retirement. (Kevin Winter/Getty Images for WarnerMedia)
Washington hinted at his departure from Hollywood after completing several film projects.
In November, the Academy Award-winning actor announced on Australia’s “Today” show that he is nearing the end of his Hollywood career.
“For me, it’s about the filmmaker, especially at this point in my career,” Washington said.
“I’m only interested in working with the best. I don’t know how many more films I’ll make – probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done yet.”
He then discussed his upcoming roles, including in Shakespeare’s “Othello” on Broadway. Washington first portrayed the character when he was 22 and has plans to play Othello for a third time in a film adaptation.
Washington hinted at his departure from Hollywood after planning to complete several film projects. (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)
Washington also booked a number of other projects, including a role as Carthaginian general Hannibal in an upcoming Netflix project, working with director Steve McQueen on a film and a role in the third ‘Black Panther’ film.
The actor announced that he will also play the character King Lear in another film.
“After that, I’ll retire,” Washington noted.
While Washington sent his passionate fans into a tailspin with his retirement rumors, he clarified his comments just days after the “Today” interview.
“I didn’t say I was going to retire,” he says told BuzzFeed. “I said it has to be an interest level for me. I’m more interested in being behind the camera, so that’s about five years from now.”
“It’s very difficult. And I may have used the word ‘retire’, but I look at life in three parts: you learn, you earn, you come back. I’m in the last part of life.”
DENZEL WASHINGTON APPEARS TO LASH AT FANS IN HEATED EXCHANGE IN NYC
Washington appeared to be having a heated argument with fans who tried to take his photo and ask for his autograph outside the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. (Getty Images)
Last year, Washington appeared to have a heated argument with fans who tried to take his photo and ask for his autograph outside the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
In October the “Training Day” actor attended a movie benefit honoring Samuel L. Jackson.
While Washington arrived in good spirits and paused to take some photos in front of and with fans, his evening took an awkward turn when he lashed out.
As he walked inside, Washington quickly turned and approached a group of fans looking for autographs.
In a video obtained by Fox News Digital, Washington can be heard saying, “Put this down. I heard you. You’re talking about showing love… respect me.”
WATCH: DENZEL WASHINGTON APPEARS TO LASH AT FANS IN HEATED EXCHANGE IN NYC
“We always do that,” one fan responded.
“I said, ‘I’ll see you when I get out.’ What part of that don’t you understand?” Washington said.
‘Or not, or not! We can do it in a different way. I can do it both ways, y’all,” he added before walking inside.
It is unclear what led to the exchange.
In December, Washington took on a new role in his life when he received his Secretary of State’s license. (Rich Rage/Getty Images)
In the meantime, the Hollywood actor can add ministry to his impressive resume.
In December, Washington took on a new role in his life when he received his Secretary of State’s license.
Washington was baptized by Bishop James Pullings Jr. at Kelly Temple in New York City.
“It’s taken a while, but I’m finally here… If (God) can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you,” Washington said, according to a video shared online. “The sky is literally the limit.”
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Esther Renee Burns Pullings, the bishop’s wife, shared photos of this moment on Facebook.
“A beautiful service we had today at the Historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ,” she captioned the photos. “We witnessed our Bishop James Pullings Jr. baptize Minister Denzel Washington today to God be the glory!”
Washington previously admitted that you “can’t talk” about religion in the industry.
“When you see me, you see what I can do best with what my lord and savior has given me,” the “Gladiator II” star wrote for Esquire. “I’m not afraid.”
Denzel Washington has been open about his faith. (Tiziana Fabi)
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“I don’t care what anyone thinks. Look, when you talk about the fear part of it: You can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town,” Washington added to it.
“I’m free now. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not talked about… It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe it. There is no such thing as Hollywood. What does that even mean? That means a street called Hollywood Boulevard to me,” he wrote.
Washington got his breakout role in the medical drama ‘St. Elsewhere’ in 1982. He earned multiple nominations for his work on the show and was eventually able to break into film.
Washington is known for films such as ‘Fences’, ‘The Book of Eli’, ‘Cry Freedom’ and ‘Malcom X’.
WATCH: ‘GLADIATOR II’ STAR DENZEL WASHINGTON APPROACHES KING CHARLES IN ADVERSE ENCOUNTER
Washington also had a memorable moment with King Charles III during the premiere of “Gladiator II.”
In November, King Charles greeted the cast of “Gladiator II” at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square in London.
During the meet and greet, cast members including Washington, Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal, along with director Sir Ridley Scott, met King Charles one by one. However, Washington seemed nervous when he met the royal monarch.
“I didn’t know whether to take your hand or not,” Washington smiled as he shook Charles’s hand.
Washington had a memorable moment with King Charles III at the premiere of “Gladiator II.” (Gareth Cattermole/Eddie Mulholland – WPA Pool/Getty Images)
“I’m just a terrible…I’m a nice guy, you’ll see,” Washington said, stumbling over his words. “I’m a sweet guy.”
King Charles continued the exchange, telling Washington, “You’ve been in so many movies, it’s fantastic.”
Washington graciously replied, “Thank you, thank you.”
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Lauryn Overhultz and Christina Dugan Ramirez of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.
