Denzel Washington says he will retire from acting after Marvel debut
Subscribe For Weekly Film News From Clarisse!
Subscribe For Free: The Life Cinematic Email
Subscribe For Free To The Life Cinematic Newsletter!
I’d love to receive emails regarding promotions, happenings, and news from The Independent. Please take a look at our privacy policy.
Denzel Washington has announced that he intends to retire soon, with one of his last performances set to be in the upcoming third installment of the Black Panther series.
The 69-year-old Oscar-winning actor, who is receiving enthusiastic reviews and attention for potential awards for his role in Gladiator II, states that there aren’t many films remaining for him to pursue at this point in his career.
During the promotional tour for Gladiator II, Washington shared with Australia’s Today program that he now has only a few directors on his wishlist for future collaborations.
He mentioned, “At this stage in my career, my focus is on the directors. I really want to collaborate with the finest talent out there. I’m not sure how many more films I have left in me, but I know it’s not a lot. I want to explore new experiences and take on projects that are different from what I've done before.”
Washington shared that he will be starring in a Broadway production of Othello alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, set for February 2025. He reflected on his journey, noting, "I played Othello when I was 22, and now I'm preparing to take on the role again at 70."
Moving on, the star of Training Day mentioned that he would like to collaborate with directors Steve McQueen and Ryan Coogler. He also brought up plans for a project based on King Lear, as well as a movie focused on the Carthaginian general Hannibal.
"Next, I'm starring in Hannibal. I've also been in discussions with Steve McQueen about a movie project," Washington shared. "Following that, Ryan Coogler is crafting a role for me in the next Black Panther film. Afterward, I'll be working on Othello. Then, I’ll take on King Lear. Finally, I'm planning to retire."
Apart from the Hannibal movie directed by Antoine Fuqua for Netflix, none of the other film projects that Washington referred to have been officially verified.
The Steve McQueen project is still shrouded in secrecy, just like the upcoming third Black Panther movie. However, given the popularity of the first two films, it's very probable that Marvel and Disney will bring Coogler back to explore Wakanda once again.
Enjoy a complimentary 7-day trial of Apple TV+.
This offer is exclusively for new subscribers. After the free trial, the cost will be £8.99 per month. Your plan will automatically renew unless you choose to cancel it.
Enjoy a complimentary 7-day trial of Apple TV+.
This offer is for new subscribers only. After the free trial, the cost will be £8.99 per month. The plan will automatically renew until you decide to cancel it.
Before his unexpected passing in August 2020, Chadwick Boseman, known for portraying King T’Challa in four Marvel films, shared that Washington had financed his education at an acting school.
During the AFI Life Achievement Award event honoring Washington in 2019, Boseman expressed, “Denzel Washington is the reason we have Black Panther. My entire cast owes a debt to you. The daily struggles you overcame, the numerous achievements you secured, and the sacrifices you've made for representation in cinema throughout your career have created a pathway for us to tread. Your unwavering principles have set a standard for us to emulate.”
