Denzel Washington, an actor renowned for his profound performances and steadfast personal convictions, recently shared his perspective on prioritizing inner fulfillment over the pursuit of accolades. His statement, "Man gives the awards, God gives the rewards," encapsulates his long-standing philosophy of valuing spiritual grounding and the integrity of his craft above external recognition.
This perspective has been a consistent theme throughout Washington's career, as he has deliberately chosen roles that are artistically challenging and resonant, rather than those that might guarantee awards. His former "Training Day" co-star, Ethan Hawke, recalled Washington's advice on Oscar night: "It's better that you didn't win. Losing was better." This sentiment reflects Washington's belief that an artist's true objective should be to elevate their work, not to seek personal elevation through awards. His focus remains on the lasting impact of his contributions, a principle that has guided his career choices for decades.
Currently, Washington is captivating audiences in Spike Lee's latest film, "Highest 2 Lowest." This reimagining of Akira Kurosawa's classic "High and Low" features Washington as a music mogul caught in a high-stakes ransom plot. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival to significant acclaim, also boasts notable performances from Jeffrey Wright and Ilfenesh Hadera. "Highest 2 Lowest" was released in U.S. theaters on August 15, 2025, and will have its global debut on Apple TV+ on September 5, 2025.
Reflecting on his career and the industry's emphasis on recognition, Washington expressed indifference regarding his absence from "Gladiator II"'s Oscar nominations. His comments underscore a career dedicated to artistic exploration and personal growth, a testament to his enduring commitment to his craft and his deeply ingrained spiritual values. This approach, where faith and purpose guide his decisions, continues to inspire many within and beyond the film industry.