10 fun and interesting Denzel Washington facts

1. A deeply religious man

Raised in a deeply religious home, Denzel Washington was no stranger to the power of faith. His father, a Pentecostal minister, instilled in him a strong sense of spirituality that has stayed with him throughout his life. Denzel has often spoken of his upbringing and the impact it had on him, saying that it taught him the importance of hard work, discipline, and respect.

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2. Denzel Washington Ranked as One of the Top 100 Sexiest Stars

Denzel Washington was taken aback when he was ranked as one of the top 100 Sexiest Stars by Empire magazine in 1995. His surprise was understandable, as the actor had already established himself as a respected and acclaimed actor, having won two Academy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. Despite his surprise, Washington's inclusion on the list was well-deserved, as his charisma and charm have made him a fan favorite for decades.

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3. Denzel Washington Named Son After Civil Rights Leader Malcolm X

Denzel Washington is a devoted father of four children: John David, Katie, and twins Olivia and Malcolm. He named his youngest son after the iconic civil rights leader, Malcolm X, in a tribute to his legacy. Washington is a strong advocate for the importance of family, and his children are a testament to his commitment to his values.

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4. A Storied Career

Denzel Washington has twice taken on the iconic role of Malcolm X, first in Spike Lee's acclaimed film "Malcolm X" and then in the theatre production "When the Chickens Came Home to Roost". His portrayal of the civil rights leader was so powerful that it earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Washington's performance in the theatre production was particularly praised for its depth and emotion, with critics noting his ability to capture the complexity of Malcolm X's life and legacy.

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5. Fordham Grad & Journalist

Before becoming one of the most celebrated actors in Hollywood, Denzel Washington earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from Fordham University. His impressive academic credentials, combined with his undeniable talent, have enabled him to become one of the most successful and respected actors in the industry, with two Academy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award to his name.

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6. Advocate for Boys and Girls Clubs of America

As a child, Denzel Washington was an active member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, a youth organization that provides educational and recreational activities for young people. After achieving fame, Denzel became a passionate advocate for the organization, frequently speaking out about its importance and the positive impact it has on the lives of young people. He has even donated millions of dollars to the organization, helping to ensure that it can continue to provide its valuable services to children in need.

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7. The Man Who Turned Down 'Se7en'

In 1995, Denzel Washington made a bold decision to turn down the lead role in the iconic film "Se7en", which was later given to Brad Pitt. The film went on to become a huge success, grossing over $327 million worldwide and receiving numerous awards and nominations. It is now considered one of the greatest films of all time, and Washington's decision to pass on the role has become a part of Hollywood folklore.

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8. Denzel Washington's intense training for 'Courage Under Fire' pays off

Denzel Washington's preparation for his role in the movie "Courage Under Fire" was intense. He received intensive training at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, which gave him a wealth of knowledge and insight into the character he was playing. His hard work paid off, as his performance in the movie was incredibly realistic and believable.

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9. Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts Keep Close Friends

Denzel Washington and Julia Roberts have been close friends for many years, having first met on the set of the movie The Pelican Brief in 1993. Since then, the two have remained close, often attending events together and supporting each other's work. They have even been spotted out and about in Los Angeles, enjoying dinner and drinks together. It's clear that the two have a strong bond and a deep friendship that has lasted for decades.

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10. Denzel Washington Thriving Despite Missing 'Dreamgirls'

In 2006, Denzel Washington was offered the role of Curtis Taylor Jr. in the movie "Dreamgirls", but ultimately the part went to Jamie Foxx. Washington was considered for the role due to his impressive acting credentials, having won two Academy Awards for his performances in "Glory" and "Training Day". Despite not being cast in the role, Washington's career has continued to thrive, with him receiving numerous awards and accolades for his work.