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Key Points

Denzel Washington boldly dismisses concerns about cancel culture in a new interview. The legendary actor questions the very concept of being "cancelled" while emphasizing his spiritual values. Washington downplays his Oscar wins, stating awards hold little meaning compared to divine purpose. He's currently starring in High and Low, his fifth collaboration with director Spike Lee.

Key Points: Denzel Washington Says You Can't Be Cancelled Without Consent

  • Washington rejects cancel culture by questioning its definition
  • The actor prioritizes spiritual faith over public approval
  • Two-time Oscar winner downplays awards significance
  • Collaborates with Spike Lee on High and Low remake
3 min read

You can't be cancelled..: Denzel Washington on cancel culture, public support

Oscar winner Denzel Washington dismisses cancel culture fears, emphasizing faith over public opinion in candid Hollywood Reporter interview.

"You can't be cancelled if you haven't signed up. Don't sign up. - Denzel Washington"

Washington, DC, August 18

Actor and director Denzel Washington shared that he is not concerned about other people's opinions and getting "cancelled," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

When Washington, alongside director and frequent collaborator Spike Lee, was asked, in a video interview, if he was concerned about "being 'cancelled,'" he replied with a question, "What does that mean -- to be cancelled?"

The interviewer responded, "it means you lose public support," Washington said, "who cares?,"according to The Hollywood Reporter.

He added, "What made public support so important to begin with?"

Washington explained what's important to him. "I don't care who's following who," he said. "You can't lead and follow at the same time, and you can't follow and lead at the same time. I don't follow anybody. I follow the heavenly spirit. I follow God, I don't follow man. I have faith in God. I have hope in man, but look around, it ain't working out so well," according to The Hollywood Reporter.

He added, "You can't be cancelled if you haven't signed up. Don't sign up. Don't get me started. My chest started hurting. You know, chest is getting tight talking about it."

Denzel Washington has nine Academy Award nominations under his belt and is a two-time Oscar winner for his performances in the movies 'Glory' and 'Training Day'. However, the actor places no value on such career milestones

Recently, in an interview with Variety, he said, "I don't do it for Oscars. I don't care about that kind of stuff. I've been at this a long time, and there's time when I won and shouldn't have won and then didn't win and should've won. Man gives the award. God gives the reward."

Washington continued, "I'm not that interested in Oscars. People ask me, 'Where do I keep it?' Well, next to the other one. I'm not bragging! Just telling you how I feel about it. On my last day, [Oscars] aren't going to do me a bit of good."

Washington and Lee's latest collaboration, their fifth overall and first in nearly 20 years, though according to Lee, likely not their last, the movie Highest 2 Lowest, is in theatres now, as per the outlet.

The A24 and Apple film is a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa's High and Low, starring Washington as a music mogul who's targeted in a ransom plot, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
His words resonate deeply with Indian philosophy - focus on your dharma (duty) rather than external validation. But I wonder if Indian stars could be this bold without facing backlash?
K
Karthik V
While I admire his confidence, this attitude might not work for everyone. In India especially, public support matters for careers. Not everyone has the privilege to ignore it.
S
Shreya B
"Man gives the award, God gives the reward" - what a powerful line! Reminds me of our own Bollywood legends who stayed grounded despite fame. More celebs should think like this!
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Michael C
Interesting perspective. In India's film industry where PR and image management is everything, this is refreshing. But is it practical in today's social media world?
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Priyanka N
As an aspiring actress, this gives me courage! But I wish our industry also valued talent over controversies. Cancel culture is worse here with political parties getting involved sometimes.
V
Varun X
Respectfully disagree. Public support matters when you're in entertainment business. His stance works because he's already established. Newcomers can't afford this attitude.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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