Fans might soon see less of Denzel Washington on screen as the double Oscar winner suggests that his focus is shifting to behind-the-scenes roles, a revelation that came during an engaging conversation at the American Black Film Festival.
- Jun 19, 2024
AceShowbiz - Denzel Washington, a renowned actor known for his diverse roles and notable films, has hinted at transitioning away from on-screen acting. Speaking to Chaz Ebert during the closing day of the American Black Film Festival, the 69-year-old actor opened up about his future plans.
Washington remarked, "The things that are going on for me professionally behind the camera are as important to me now as in front of the camera. I think there's less and less time I'll be spending in front of the camera." This statement suggests a significant shift in his career focus.
One of Washington's current projects that embody this transition is the adaptation of August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson." This film is a true family collaboration: his son Malcolm Washington directs while his other son, John David Washington, stars. Denzel's daughters, Katia and Olivia Washington, are also involved as a producer and cameo actor, respectively. The film features other celebrated actors, including Samuel L. Jackson, Corey Hawkins, and Danielle Deadwyler.
Denzel candidly shared his experience working with his children on the film. He jested, "After about two weeks [on set], I went home. I was like, there's really nothing for me to do here, I'm just in the way." Washington praised his son Malcolm's directional abilities, noting, "He's very talented. He went to the American Film Institute. He graduated number one in his class."
The actor also credited his wife, Pauletta Pearson, for sparking their children's interest in the film industry, mentioning, "They all got it from their mother's side. As long as I've known her, she's been a movie buff, she got those kids to watch movies."
In a light-hearted moment during the festival, Washington made a video call to Pauletta. She humorously remarked, "Tomorrow's Father's Day so you can forget getting a gift!"
Despite his planned step-back from acting, Denzel Washington remains active with upcoming projects, including a role in the "Gladiator" sequel and Spike Lee's crime drama "High and Low." While fans might miss seeing his frequent on-screen presence, they can look forward to his influential work behind the camera and his family's promising contributions to the industry.
