Denzel Washington Signals Retirement After Final Projects

Denzel Washington, 69, has announced plans to retire after completing his current slate of projects. The celebrated actor hinted that his career is winding down as he approaches his next roles, including a significant return to the stage and potential collaborations with notable directors.

In an interview with Australia’s Today, Washington said, “I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make. Probably not that many.” His upcoming projects include reprising his role as Othello, a character he first played at age 22: “I’m about to play Othello at 70.” He also mentioned possible work with Steve McQueen and Ryan Coogler, with Coogler reportedly writing a role for him in the next Black Panther film. Washington hinted at roles like King Lear and said, “After that, I’m going to retire.”

With a career beginning in 1977’s Wilma and roles in iconic films like Training Day, Washington leaves behind a legacy of stellar performances. “There are very few films left for me to make that I’m interested in,” he shared, emphasizing his need for inspiration to continue.