Denzel Washington hints at retiring in surprising Australian interview

In a move that has surprised fans worldwide, Denzel Washington has announced that he is preparing to retire from Hollywood after completing a carefully chosen slate of final projects. The 69-year-old actor, widely regarded as one of the greatest talents of his generation, revealed his plans in an interview with Australia’s Today Show.

When asked about his future in film, Washington hinted that his acting journey may soon come to a close, saying, “I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make. Probably not that many.”

For his final works, Washington has lined up an ambitious array of projects that exemplify the artistry and versatility he has brought to the screen throughout his nearly five-decade career. Among the most anticipated roles is a return to William Shakespeare’s Othello, a part Washington first performed at age 22, during his early days in the theater. Now, as he prepares to take on this complex role at age 70, fans are eager to see his seasoned interpretation of one of Shakespeare’s most challenging characters.

“I’m about to play Othello at 70,” Washington shared, underscoring his dedication to tackling characters with emotional depth and nuance. This role brings Washington full circle, serving as a tribute to his roots in theater, where he first developed his passion for storytelling and the craft of acting.

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Alongside Othello, Washington has hinted at collaborations with some of the industry’s most prominent filmmakers. He mentioned potential projects with directors Steve McQueen and Ryan Coogler, two figures renowned for their distinct and impactful storytelling.

Coogler, the visionary director of Black Panther, is reportedly crafting a role specifically for Washington in the next installment of the Marvel franchise, a move that has already generated buzz among fans of the actor and the superhero series alike. Known for portraying strong, influential characters, Washington’s potential involvement in Black Panther could bring a new layer of gravitas to the franchise.

In addition, Washington revealed that he is considering taking on the title role in King Lear, another Shakespearean masterpiece. This project, along with Othello, underscores Washington’s desire to conclude his career on a high note, taking on characters with intense psychological and emotional depth. The actor’s connection to Shakespeare has been a constant throughout his career, and these final projects mark a fitting close to his acting legacy.

Born in 1954 in Mount Vernon, New York, Washington began his career in 1977 with the made-for-television film Wilma. His feature film debut followed in 1981’s Carbon Copy, but it was his role as Private Trip in Glory (1989) that brought him his first Academy Award and set the stage for an extraordinary career. Washington went on to deliver iconic performances in films like Malcolm X, Training Day (for which he won his second Oscar), The Hurricane, Fences, and Remember the Titans. Each role has highlighted Washington’s unmatched ability to convey strength, vulnerability, and moral complexity.

While he has continued to excel on screen, Washington has also pursued directorial work, bringing his unique vision to films like Antwone Fisher and Fences. Earlier this year, he expressed interest in the Gladiator sequel, hinting at his preference for roles that inspire him and align with his values. “There are very few films left for me to make that I’m interested in, and I have to be inspired by the filmmaker,” he shared.

Washington’s retirement marks the end of an era for Hollywood. His contributions to film have earned him not only critical acclaim but also deep respect from audiences and colleagues alike. As he prepares to close this chapter, Washington leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of acting.