Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington has spoken out against “cancel culture,” reaffirming that his views stem from his own beliefs and devotion to God.
In a recent interview with Complex News, the 70-year-old actor was asked about the impact of losing public support in the realm of “cancel culture,” to which he firmly rejected the idea.
“Who cares?” Washington told the media. “Where’s the rationality in the importance of public support?”
The interviewer explained that in today’s digital society, the number of followers on social media is equivalent to a form of “currency.” In response, Washington stated, “I don’t care who’s following who.”
“You can’t lead and follow at the same time,” he said. “I follow the spirit up above. I follow God, not man. I have faith in God, hope for humanity, but looking around, the outlook isn’t exactly optimistic.”
“If you don’t get trapped in it, then you can’t be ‘canceled’,” he added. “Don’t get caught up in it.”
Washington expressed these views while promoting his new film “Heaven and Hell.” The movie is an American crime thriller directed by Spike Lee, marking their first collaboration since the 2006 film “Inside Man.”
In January of this year, Washington received his 11th Golden Globe Award nomination for his leading role in “Gladiator 2.” The film is a sequel to director Ridley Scott’s original work from 2000.
After completing filming, Washington contemplated the possibility of retirement and his future in the film industry. He also stated last year that he would be more cautious in his decision-making process going forward.
In a recent interview, the celebrated actor of “Training Day” reiterated his stance, emphasizing that he does not overly focus on awards and honors.
“I really don’t care about that kind of stuff,” he told host Jake Hamilton on the YouTube channel and podcast “Jake’s Takes.”
“I’ve been in this business for a long time. Sometimes I win awards that weren’t supposed to be mine, and sometimes I don’t win awards that should have been mine. Awards are given by people, grace comes from God.”
Throughout his career, Washington has appeared in over 60 works. He entered the entertainment industry in the late 1970s through television dramas and had a breakthrough role in the 1987 film “Cry Freedom.”
Since then, he has become a household name, known for works such as “Training Day,” “The Book of Eli,” “Fences,” and “American Gangster.”
He has won two Oscars: Best Supporting Actor for “Glory” (1989) and Best Actor for “Training Day” (2001).
In addition, Washington has received numerous nominations, totaling over 200, for awards such as the Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild, and Tony Awards.