Even though Denzel Washington has won two golden statuettes and received nine Oscar nominations, he has zero desire to win any more. Although he won best actor in 2001 for 'Training Day' and best supporting actor in 1989 for 'Glory,' the renowned actor claims that awards have never influenced his professional decisions.
While promoting his new film 'Highest 2 Lowest,' Washington mentioned to Jake’s Takes that he did not act for Oscars and did not care about such recognition. He noted that he had been in the industry for a long time, recalling times when he won awards he felt he should not have and other times when he lost despite feeling he should have won. He concluded by saying that man gave the award, but God gave the reward.
In absolute Denzel style, he reiterated his indifference toward the Oscars, saying he was not particularly interested in them. When asked where he kept the award, he responded that it was placed next to the other one, clarifying that he was not bragging but simply expressing his feelings. He added that on his last day, the Oscars would not do him any good.
When interviewer Jake Hamilton joked that God would never ask how many Oscars he had, Denzel laughed and replied that God might say that was why he gave him an extra week, adding that as long as God told him to come on up, he would be alright.
When Washington was named one of the biggest "Oscar snubs" of the year for 'Gladiator II' (2024), that level head came in value earlier this year. He seemed unconcerned when The New York Times asked him about not getting a nomination, he remarked, “Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset. I’m happy for all that I did, and I’m happy with what I’m doing.”
He was busy rehearsing Othello on Broadway on the very day the Oscar nominations were announced. Reflecting on the moment, he noted the irony of not receiving a nomination while being fully engaged in such a prestigious project. He added that over the years, he has grown wiser, focusing on speaking less and observing more, which he finds exciting.
