25 Inspirational Quotes by Denzel Washington
“If you don’t fail, you’re not even trying.” ~Denzel Washington
(Arranged by Carmichael Phillips)
(Denzel Washington in Fences)
RELATED TOPICS:
Actor Profile: Denzel Washington
How Denzel Washington Got Started in Acting
5 Basic Facts About Denzel Washington
25 Inspirational Quotes by Denzel Washington
On failure…
“Fail big! Today’s the beginning of the rest of your life.”
“If you don’t fail, you’re not even trying.”
“Don’t be afraid to fail big, to dream big.”
On his acting technique…
(Denzel Washington in Man on Fire)
“Bruce Lee, you know, studied many martial arts. And he always said, take what’s useful. So, I’ve taken from different styles. There is no one discipline. There is no one gospel, when it comes to acting. So, I take a little from this, take a little from that.”
“Branding for an actor is being good, not being known.”
On having fallback plans…
“I’m sure people have told you to make sure you have something to fall back on. Make sure you have something to fall back on, honey. But I never understood that concept; having something to fall back on. If I’m going to fall, I don’t want to fall back on anything, except my faith. I want to fall forward. I figured at least this way I’ll see what I’m going to hit. Fall forward!”
On working hard…
“I was a garbage man. I worked the back of the truck. 22 square blocks! That’s HARD! There’s nothing we do in the movies that is hard.”
“Hard work, works! Working really hard is what successful people do.”
“You have to work at it. Everyday! You have to plan. You’ve heard the saying, ‘We don’t plan to fail, we fail to plan.’”
On taking chances…
“You only live once. So do what you feel passionate about. Take chances, professionally. Don’t be afraid to fail.”
On thinking outside the box…
Don’t be afraid to go outside the box. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Don’t be afraid to fail big…to dream big!”
‘To get something you’ve never had, you have to do something you never did.’”
On having a backup plan…
“If you’re smart, you’ll have a back-up plan. If you don’t, you’ll succeed.”
On rejecting ease…
“Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship. So, keep moving, keep growing, keep learning!”
On not quitting…
“Keep working. Keep striving. Fall seven times; get up eight!”
On having goals…
“Remember, dreams without goals are just dreams. And they ultimately fuel disappointment.”
“Have dreams, but have goals. Life goals. Monthly goals. Yearly goals. Daily goals. I try to give myself a goal every day.”
“Have goals. And understand that, to achieve these goals, you must apply discipline and consistency…not just on Tuesday and then miss a few days.”
“I ask you today. How many ghosts are going to be around your bed when your time comes?”
“Continue to strive. Continue to have goals. Continue to progress.”
On having gratitude…
“One of the most important lessons in life is to remember to have an attitude of gratitude.”
“Don’t just aspire to make a living. Aspire to make a difference.”
Denzel Washington Profile
A Legendary Actor’s Journey Through Hollywood
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Early Life and Foundations
Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. was born on December 28, 1954, in Mount Vernon, New York. Raised by his mother, Lennis, a beauty parlor owner, and his father, Denzel Hayes Washington Sr., a Pentecostal minister, Washington’s upbringing was deeply rooted in discipline, faith, and hard work. His early life was marked by a strong family bond and the expectation of excellence.
After a brief stint at Fordham University where he initially struggled with his academic direction, Washington discovered acting almost by accident. A counselor suggested he consider acting after he participated in a staff talent show. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Washington later said, “Acting found me. I didn’t find it.”
Breaking Into the Industry
Washington’s initial foray into acting was through theater. After graduating from Fordham with a degree in Drama and Journalism, he attended the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco for further training. However, eager to jumpstart his career, he returned to New York and began securing roles in stage productions and television.
His breakout role came in 1982 with the medical drama St. Elsewhere, where he portrayed Dr. Philip Chandler. This role not only showcased his talent but also established him as a reliable and charismatic performer. Of those early days, Washington once remarked, “You pray for rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. That’s a part of it.”
Climbing to Stardom
By the late 1980s, Denzel Washington’s career had gained substantial momentum. His performance in Cry Freedom (1987), portraying South African anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Just two years later, he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Glory (1989), a film about African-American soldiers in the Civil War.
Washington’s appeal lay in his ability to bring gravitas, dignity, and intensity to every role. He famously said, “I say luck is when an opportunity comes along and you’re prepared for it.” His preparation and commitment to craft were becoming hallmarks of his performances.
A Career Defined by Diversity
Denzel Washington’s filmography spans an astonishing range of characters and genres. Whether portraying real-life figures like Malcolm X in Malcolm X (1992) or embodying fictional anti-heroes like Alonzo Harris in Training Day (2001), Washington consistently delivered layered, powerful performances.
His role in Training Day was particularly significant, as it earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, making him only the second African-American actor to win that honor at the time. Reflecting on his approach, Washington shared, “I made a commitment to completely cut out drinking and anything that might hamper me from being the best actor I can be.”
The Director’s Chair
Not content with dominating in front of the camera, Washington also moved behind it. His directorial debut came in 2002 with Antwone Fisher, a critically acclaimed drama based on a true story. He followed it with The Great Debaters (2007) and Fences (2016), the latter of which received widespread acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations.
Discussing his work as a director, he said, “You pray for the rain, you gotta deal with the mud too. I try to show that side as well.” His films often explore complex social issues, human resilience, and the nuances of relationships.
Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his fame, Denzel Washington has maintained a relatively private and grounded personal life. He has been married to Pauletta Pearson since 1983, and the couple has four children. Washington attributes much of his stability to his strong family bonds and his Christian faith.
He is also well known for his philanthropy, supporting organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, for which he has served as a spokesperson. Washington’s belief in giving back is summed up in his words: “At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better.”
Awards and Recognition
Denzel Washington’s shelf is crowded with accolades, including multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and a Tony Award. In 2016, he was awarded the Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement at the Golden Globes. He was also honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022, one of the highest civilian awards in the United States.
Critics and audiences alike recognize Washington’s unparalleled influence in Hollywood. “You have to grab moments when they happen. I work at it. It’s not all luck,” he once said, a fitting mantra for a career built on hard work and excellence.
Impact on Culture
Washington’s portrayal of strong, complex African-American characters has been groundbreaking. He has paved the way for future generations of actors of color and has broadened the scope of roles available to them.
Beyond representation, Washington’s influence is felt in the way he has elevated the standards of performance across the industry. As fellow actor Chadwick Boseman said during a tribute, “There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington.” Washington’s mentorship and financial support of young artists have created ripples that will influence Hollywood for decades.
Recent Projects and Future Outlook
In recent years, Washington continues to challenge himself and his audience. Films like The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021) show his willingness to take on demanding roles well into his 60s. His portrayal of Shakespeare’s tortured general received critical acclaim, further cementing his status as a living legend.
Looking forward, Washington shows no sign of slowing down. “Ease is a greater threat to progress than hardship,” he said in a commencement address, and his career is a testament to the power of perseverance and ambition.
10 Facts About Denzel Washington
Exploring the remarkable journey and achievements of an iconic actor
(By Carmichael Phillip)
(Denzel Washington in Fences)
1. He Was Named After His Father
Denzel Washington Jr. was named after his father, Denzel Washington Sr., who was a Pentecostal minister and worked for the New York City Water Department. Growing up, Washington credits his parents with instilling strong values.
In an interview, Denzel said, “My father taught me how to be a man, how to be a real man, not by showing me, but by how he lived his life.”
2. He Has Won Two Academy Awards
Denzel Washington has won two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor for Glory (1989) and Best Actor for Training Day (2001).
He once humbly remarked, “Luck is where opportunity meets preparation,” illustrating how seriously he approaches his craft.
3. He Almost Became a Doctor
Before he discovered acting, Denzel initially considered a career in medicine. He studied biology at Fordham University with the intention of becoming a doctor.
However, he later admitted, “I just wasn’t good enough in science,” leading him to switch to drama — a decision that would change his life forever.
4. He Is a Devout Christian
Faith has played a central role in Washington’s life. He reads the Bible daily and has openly spoken about his spiritual beliefs.
He has said, “I read from the Bible every day, and I read my Daily Word. I pray and I try to get myself spiritually grounded.”
5. He Turned Down a Role in “Se7en”
Denzel Washington was offered the role of Detective David Mills in the 1995 film Se7en, but he turned it down. Brad Pitt ultimately took the role and earned significant praise.
Washington later confessed, “I didn’t think it was a good fit for me at the time. But I watched the movie and thought it was brilliant.”
6. He Directed and Starred in “Fences”
In 2016, Denzel Washington directed and starred in Fences, based on August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play. The film was critically acclaimed and earned him another Academy Award nomination.
When asked about directing, he shared, “I like being behind the scenes — it’s where I can really tell the whole story.”
7. He Has a Long-Lasting Marriage
Unlike many Hollywood stars, Washington has been married to Pauletta Pearson since 1983. Their marriage is one of the longest in the entertainment industry.
Speaking about the secret to their enduring relationship, he said, “A lot of prayers. A lot of counseling. And a lot of love.”
8. He Studied Acting at the American Conservatory Theater
After graduating from Fordham University, Washington attended the American Conservatory Theater (ACT) in San Francisco for further training in acting.
Reflecting on his early days, he once said, “I didn’t just want to be a star; I wanted to be a great actor.”
9. He Donates Generously to Charities
Denzel Washington is known for his philanthropy. He has donated millions to organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Fisher House Foundation, which supports military families.
He said, “At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about who you’ve lifted up.”
10. He Remains Humble Despite His Success
Despite all his awards and achievements, Denzel Washington remains grounded and focused on his craft and personal values.
As he wisely put it, “Success? I don’t know what that word means. I’m happy. But success, that goes back to what in somebody’s eyes success means.”
Denzel Washington Filmography
An In-Depth Look at the Cinematic Journey of a Legend
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Early Beginnings and Breakthrough Roles
Denzel Washington’s film career began with modest beginnings, yet it quickly showed signs of greatness. His first credited screen appearance was in the 1981 film Carbon Copy, where he starred alongside George Segal. Though the film received mixed reviews, it was a stepping stone that showcased Washington’s charm and screen presence.
His true breakthrough came not in film, but television with St. Elsewhere (1982–1988). Still, this visibility led to important early film roles like A Soldier’s Story (1984) and Power (1986). Reflecting on his start, Washington said, “I just do what I feel and follow my gut.” It was this instinct that began carving his path toward stardom.
Earning Critical Acclaim: Cry Freedom and Glory
Washington’s role as South African activist Steve Biko in Cry Freedom (1987) was a game-changer. His performance earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. In this film, Washington embodied a powerful real-life figure, displaying a natural authority that would become his trademark.
He cemented his place among Hollywood’s elite with Glory (1989), playing Private Trip, a former enslaved man who fights for the Union in the Civil War. His riveting performance earned him his first Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor. In one memorable scene, Trip defiantly stares ahead while enduring brutal punishment, a moment critics call “a masterclass in silent acting.”
As Washington once stated, “You have to grab moments when they happen.” These films were those pivotal moments for his career.
The Power of Biopics: Malcolm X and Beyond
Washington’s portrayal of Malcolm X in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X (1992) remains one of the most celebrated performances in cinematic history. His intense preparation included studying Malcolm X’s speeches, adopting his cadence, and physically transforming himself. The result was a riveting, Oscar-nominated performance.
Critics raved about Washington’s work. Roger Ebert called it, “one of the great performances in modern film.” Washington reflected on the role by saying, “I’m just trying to do the best job I can and represent the man truthfully.”
Other significant biopics include The Hurricane (1999), where he portrayed wrongfully imprisoned boxer Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, and Remember the Titans (2000), where he played coach Herman Boone, a role that inspired audiences worldwide.
Master of Action and Thrillers
While Washington excels at historical figures, he’s equally compelling in action and thriller films. In Crimson Tide (1995), he faced off against Gene Hackman in a tense underwater drama aboard a nuclear submarine.
He reunited with director Tony Scott for several action-packed films including Man on Fire (2004), Déjà Vu (2006), The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009), and Unstoppable (2010).
In Man on Fire, Washington plays a former CIA operative turned bodyguard who seeks revenge for the kidnapping of a young girl he’s sworn to protect. Critics praised the film for its emotional intensity, with Washington’s portrayal anchoring the story. About these roles, Washington commented, “The chances you take, the people you meet, the people you love, the faith that you have—that’s what’s going to define you.”
Academy Award Gold: Training Day
In 2001, Denzel Washington took a career-defining risk by playing against type as the corrupt LAPD detective Alonzo Harris in Training Day. The gritty, morally ambiguous performance stunned audiences and critics alike, earning him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Washington’s portrayal turned Harris into one of cinema’s most memorable villains. The film’s most iconic line—”King Kong ain’t got s* on me!”**—has become part of pop culture history.
Reflecting on the film, Washington noted, “I didn’t want to play the hero. I didn’t want to be the good guy. I wanted something different.” The risk paid off spectacularly.
Later Career Highlights: From Flight to The Equalizer
Washington continued to diversify his roles post-Training Day. In Flight (2012), he played Whip Whitaker, a brilliant yet deeply flawed pilot battling alcoholism. The performance earned him another Oscar nomination, with critics praising his raw vulnerability.
In The Equalizer (2014) and its sequel (2018), Washington reinvented himself yet again, this time as a quiet, methodical avenger helping those who cannot help themselves. Director Antoine Fuqua said, “Denzel brings a different weight and gravitas to action roles. It’s not just punching and shooting—it’s thinking, too.”
Other notable films include Fences (2016), adapted from August Wilson’s play, where Washington also served as director, and Roman J. Israel, Esq. (2017), showcasing his ability to transform into a socially awkward yet fiercely principled lawyer.
Recent Acclaimed Works: The Tragedy of Macbeth
In The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021), directed by Joel Coen, Washington tackled one of Shakespeare’s most daunting roles. His portrayal of Macbeth, opposite Frances McDormand’s Lady Macbeth, was hailed as hypnotic and chilling.
Critics celebrated Washington’s Shakespearean turn, with The Guardian writing, “Washington brings gravitas and a haunted intensity to the Scottish king.” About the experience, Washington said, “It’s all about the words. When you have Shakespeare’s words, everything else falls into place.”
This role further cemented his place among the greatest actors of all time.
Collaborations and Recurring Directors
Throughout his career, Washington has established significant collaborations, particularly with directors like Spike Lee, Antoine Fuqua, and Tony Scott.
With Spike Lee, beyond Malcolm X, he collaborated on Mo’ Better Blues (1990), He Got Game (1998), and Inside Man (2006).
With Antoine Fuqua, their partnership includes Training Day, The Equalizer films, and The Magnificent Seven (2016).
With Tony Scott, their collaborations were action-packed affairs such as Man on Fire and Déjà Vu.
Washington values these partnerships, saying, “Working with people you trust lets you push boundaries you might not reach otherwise.”
Legacy and Influence in Hollywood
Washington’s body of work is influential not just for the performances but for what they represent. He opened doors for many African-American actors in Hollywood and set a new standard for what leading men could be.
Chadwick Boseman, at the AFI Lifetime Achievement Award ceremony honoring Washington, said, “There is no Black Panther without Denzel Washington.” Many of today’s biggest stars cite Washington as a major influence.
His commitment to craft, his humility, and his generosity toward young artists ensure that his legacy will endure well beyond his last performance.
Denzel Washington Filmography (Selected Films with Release Dates):
-
Carbon Copy (1981)
-
A Soldier’s Story (1984)
-
Power (1986)
-
Cry Freedom (1987)
-
For Queen and Country (1988)
-
The Mighty Quinn (1989)
-
Glory (1989)
-
Heart Condition (1990)
-
Mo’ Better Blues (1990)
-
Mississippi Masala (1991)
-
Ricochet (1991)
-
Malcolm X (1992)
-
Much Ado About Nothing (1993)
-
The Pelican Brief (1993)
-
Philadelphia (1993)
-
Crimson Tide (1995)
-
Virtuosity (1995)
-
Devil in a Blue Dress (1995)
-
Courage Under Fire (1996)
-
The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
-
Fallen (1998)
-
He Got Game (1998)
-
The Siege (1998)
-
The Bone Collector (1999)
-
The Hurricane (1999)
-
Remember the Titans (2000)
-
Training Day (2001)
-
John Q (2002)
-
Antwone Fisher (2002) (also directed)
-
Out of Time (2003)
-
Man on Fire (2004)
-
The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
-
Inside Man (2006)
-
Déjà Vu (2006)
-
American Gangster (2007)
-
The Great Debaters (2007) (also directed)
-
The Taking of Pelham 123 (2009)
-
The Book of Eli (2010)
-
Unstoppable (2010)
-
Safe House (2012)
-
Flight (2012)
-
2 Guns (2013)
-
The Equalizer (2014)
-
The Magnificent Seven (2016)
-
Fences (2016) (also directed)
-
Roman J. Israel, Esq. (2017)
-
The Equalizer 2 (2018)
-
The Little Things (2021)
-
The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)
-
The Equalizer 3 (2023)
You Might Also Like:
5 Facts About Denzel Washington
Acting Magazine Newsletters
Never miss out on the best from Acting Magazine.