Few actors have managed to secure as long and accomplished a career as Denzel Washington.
With a career spanning roughly 50 years, the 70-year-old actor has gone on to appear in some of the biggest, most universally well-received films of the late 20th century and early 21st century yet.
Earning a plethora of accolades over the last five decades, Washington has garnered a total of nine Academy Award nominations to date, with two different Oscar wins to his name (Best Supporting Actor for Glory and Best Actor for Training Day.
Even with all of his undeniable career successes, the Malcolm X actor revealed to Jake’s Takes that he doesn’t hold much stock in winning awards for his acting achievements.
“I don’t do it for Oscars,” Washington said when discussing his career. “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.”
“I’m not that interested in Oscars,” the Flight star continued. “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.”
In the past, Washington has routinely hinted that he rarely gives much thought to the annual Academy Awards. For example, while many critics expected Washington to land a Best Supporting Actor nomination for his performance in Gladiator II, the Academy failed to list Washington in their official nominations.
When asked for his thoughts on the Oscar snub, Washington sarcastically said toThe New York Times, “Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset. I’m happy for all that did, and I’m happy with what I’m doing.”
