“It wasn’t funny to me”: Denzel Washington Almost Committed Career Suicide by Choosing ‘Racist’ Film Over $15M Movie That Earned Him His First Oscar Nomination-TH

Amidst the glitz and glamour of the industry, Denzel Washington was presented with a controversial film proposal that tested his principles.

However, the revered actor did not hesitate to decline the offer, recognizing the damaging effects it could have perpetuated. His decision reverberated throughout the entertainment world, highlighting his unwavering stance against racism.

Denzel Washington declined a film due to racism.

Denzel Washington rejected a racist film and instead chose to star in the movie Cry Freedom, released in 1987. This decision had a significant impact on his career and further solidified his reputation as a talented and conscientious actor.

This film earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. In 1989, his exceptional performance in Glory earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Throughout the 1990s, he continued to garner admiration and praise from critics, solidifying his success and reputation in the industry.

The Racist Film Offer that Denzel Washington Rejected

Denzel Washington once recounted the advice given to him by Sidney Poitier, emphasizing the crucial impact that the first few films an actor undertakes can have on their career. Washington had an experience where he received an offer for another comedy, but he found it racially offensive and not humorous at all.

Denzel Washington in American Gangster

Consequently, he turned down the role and chose to wait for about six months before accepting the opportunity to star in Cry Freedom, the 1987 biopic based on the life of South African activist Stephen Biko.

This particular film had a profound impact on his career, earning him his first Oscar nomination and completely altering the course of his professional life. “That movie changed everything. I could have taken that bad comedy and had a different career.”, says Washington.

Denzel Washington’s Powerful Performance as Steve Biko

Cry Freedom is a biographical drama film directed by Richard Attenborough. Denzel Washington portrayed the real-life South African anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko in the film.

The story revolves around the relationship between legendary anti-apartheid activist Steve Biko, played by Denzel Washington, and a white journalist, Donald Woods.

The film’s historical context reveals the stark reality of racial oppression during that era. The lasting impact of Cry Freedom goes beyond its critical success.

The film was pivotal in raising awareness about racial struggles, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring future filmmakers and actors to address racial issues.