Screenshot: Courtesy of Paramount Studios
Ever since he shot to fame in the 1984 film A Soldier’s Story, Denzel Washington has continued to dominate our screens. With an acting career spanning more than 40 years, some may wonder if this veteran actor has finally reached the point of retirement…especially since he hinted at it this summer.
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Now, in an exclusive interview with The Root ahead of his highly anticipated film Gladiator II, the Oscar-winning actor opened up about whether he’s finally saying goodbye to Hollywood. In the upcoming film, Washington stars as Macrinus, a former slave turned arms dealer who seeks to take control of Rome for his own personal gain.
Then, early promotional photos of Washington in the film went viral over the summer, and many people were talking about his villainous role. But shortly thereafter, in August, he surprised Hollywood by appearing to hint that his acting career was almost over and that he was retiring.
When asked if he actually plans to step away from screens, Washington admitted that retirement is definitely near, but if this is the beginning of his last leg in the industry, Gladiator II will be the start. He said he was grateful to be able to get the cut. ” directed by Ridley Scott. For context, the two previously co-starred in another iconic Washington movie, American Gangster.
“I don’t know how much longer my career will last, but I want to end it with the best work and work with the best directors. And if this is the beginning of the end of my career, then it’s a great “It started with Ridley[Scott]one of the directors,” he told The Root.
Additionally, when pressed for more information about what the next half of his life would be like, Washington revealed that he would write a book, return to acting work, and that future projects would include starring actors like Ryan Coogler and Steve McQueen. revealed plans to collaborate with a black director. I kept those details to a minimum.
“I’ve got some books I want to write. It’s not finished yet, it’s not finished yet! I have some bills to pay. It’s not finished yet,” the “Training Day” star laughed at The told Root. “I’m getting ready to go on stage to do Othello in the new year (2025). Nothing can top that writing and whatever comes after it has to be just as good.” yeah.”
“Gladiator II” will be released in theaters on November 22nd.
