Denzel Washington is a Hollywood A-lister, who has starred in multiple critically acclaimed fan-favorite classics such as The Book Of Eli, The Equaliser, Training Day, Roman J. Israel, Esq., The Tragedy Of Macbeth, and more.

He is a two time two Academy Award winner, who also has three Golden Globes, a Tony Award, and multiple nominations for a lot more awards. With as many hit films as he has in his portfolio, it was only a matter of time until the MCU reached out to the actor for a role.

Denzel Washington

In recent years, there has been speculation that Washington might join the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Back in 2022, it was rumored that he was being considered for the role of Magneto in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. However, those rumors were ultimately denied. Now, Washington has apparently turned down another major role in the MCU.

Denzel Washington refused a major role in an upcoming film

According to industry sources, Denzel Washington was offered the role of Galactus in the upcoming Fantastic Four, which is set to release in 2025. However, Washington has apparently declined the role.

Denzel Washington is a widely acclaimed and respected actor

There has been a lot of guesswork as to why he must have turned down the role.

Washington is known to play challenging roles with a lot of depth and provides his own human touch to them, which is not quite possible with the role of Galactus since he is not human, but a celestial being. Galactus is a villain, but he is more of a force of nature than a character.

This might not have appealed to Washington, who is known for his character-driven roles.

Samuel L. Jackson and Denzel Washington after the former won his honorary Oscar

The MCU is a huge franchise, and it can be a lot of work to be a part of it. Washington might have decided that he did not want to commit to a long-term project. The problem also is the signing of a contract, far as MCU movies are concerned. Once you’re there, the ball is in their court.

Is a future collaboration between Marvel and the actor possible?

Despite declining the role of Galactus, Washington’s future in the MCU is not necessarily over. Marvel Studios is always looking for new ways to incorporate iconic characters into the MCU, and he is still a highly sought-after actor. It is possible that he could be offered another role in the MCU in the future.

Denzel Washington reprises his role in Equalizer 3

Whatever he decides to do, Washington is sure to continue to be a significant actor in Hollywood for many years to come, so Marvel will be knocking at his door again, sooner or later.

Denzel Washington’s decision to decline the role of Galactus in Fantastic Four might be a bit of a surprise, but despite his decision, he is still one of the most respected and acclaimed actors in Hollywood.