End of an era? Denzel Washington hints at retirement
Acclaimed Hollywood actor Denzel Washington has hinted at his possible retirement. Currently busy promoting Ridley Scott's Gladiator II, Washington told Empire, "There are very few films left for me to make that I'm interested in." "I have to be inspired by the filmmaker, and I was tremendously inspired by Ridley." The movie releases on November 22 in the US.
Washington's role in 'Gladiator II'
In Gladiator II, Washington portrays Macrinus, a wealthy powerbroker in Rome who maintains a group of gladiators for entertainment. This marks another collaboration between Washington and Scott, following their work together on 2007's American Gangster. "We had a great go-round the first go-round and here we are," said Washington about working with Scott again. "He's excited about life and his next film. He's an inspiration. We should all want to feel like that at 86."
Scott's high praise for 'Gladiator II'
Meanwhile, Scott has high expectations for Gladiator II, describing it as "the best thing I've ever made," before amending his statement to "One of the best things." The film is a sequel to his Oscar-winning 2000 movie and promises intense action. Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Joseph Quinn, Fred Hechinger, and Derek Jacobi also feature in key roles. Meanwhile, re-watch the first part on Amazon Prime Video.
Washington's shift toward behind-the-camera roles
Washington, who began his onscreen career over four decades ago, has also ventured into directing and producing. His credits include Antwone Fisher (2002), The Great Debaters (2007), Fences (2016), and A Journal for Jordan (2021). He had previously hinted at his retirement from acting at the American Black Film Festival in Miami Beach, Florida in June, saying, "I think there's less and less time I'll be spending in front of the camera."
