Denzel Washington has announced his retirement from acting after finishing a few final high-profile projects. The 69-year-old actor revealed that his roles in upcoming films, including Gladiator 2, where he plays the character Macrinus, and a potential role in Black Panther 3 written by director Ryan Coogler, will be among his last. Washington’s retirement marks the end of a distinguished career, spanning over five decades and countless iconic performances.
The actor explained that he now chooses projects based on his admiration for the filmmakers involved. Reflecting on his career, Washington shared his excitement to work with directors like Steve McQueen and Coogler, emphasizing his desire to work on only the most inspiring roles before stepping away. He mentioned wanting to take on Shakespeare’s Othello and King Lear as part of his remaining projects.
Washington, who was deeply honored by the late Chadwick Boseman at the AFI Life Achievement Award ceremony, holds a special place in Hollywood, not only for his acting but for his influence on younger generations of actors. Boseman credited Washington for paving the way for Black actors in Hollywood, recognizing his unwavering dedication to authenticity and cultural representation in film.
Gladiator 2, one of his final performances, is set to release in the U.S. on November 22, generating significant anticipation as fans prepare to see Washington on the big screen in a historic role before he officially retires.
