Denzel Washington was largely lauded for his stellar performance in Gladiator II. But the renowned actor’s contribution to its success was overlooked by the Academy as he did not earn a 2025 Oscar nomination for his role in the movie.
It, however, appears the 70-year-old has no issues with the snub as he told The New York Times in a recent interview that he’s content with his career.
“I was sitting there smiling, going: Look at you. On the day you didn’t get a nomination for an Oscar, you’re working on Othello on Broadway,” said Washington. “Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset,” he continued sarcastically.
RELATED STORIES
Washington added: “I’m happy for all that did, and I’m happy with what I’m doing. Listen, I’ve been around too long. I’ve got — I don’t wanna say other fish to fry, but there’s a reality at this age. The beginning of wisdom is understanding. I’m getting wiser, working on talking less and learning to understand more — and that’s exciting.”
READ ALSO: Respect me – Denzel Washington snaps out following harassment by autograph hunters
Washington may have not received a 2025 Oscar nod for Gladiator II, but his performance in the box office-hit movie hasn’t been entirely overlooked as he earned nominations for Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards and 2025 Golden Globes.
In a 2024 interview with Empire magazine to promote the movie, Washington seemingly hinted at retirement as he said he has just a few films to make. The two-time Oscar winner did not, however, disclose when he’ll actually be retiring.
“There are very few films left for me to make that I’m interested in, and I have to be inspired by the filmmaker, and I was tremendously inspired by Ridley,” Washington said in reference to Gladiator II director Ridley Scott.
Washington and Scott already have a professional relationship as the pair worked together on the 2007 movie American Gangster. “We had a great go-round the first go-round and here we are,” Washington said. “He’s engaged. He’s excited about life and his next film. He’s an inspiration. We should all want to feel like that at 86.”
