Denzel Washington Speaks Out on Major Award Ceremony Where He Has Not Won or Received a Nomination

Renowned actor Denzel Washington has received a multitude of accolades throughout his illustrious career, yet one significant awards ceremony has consistently overlooked him. This year, Washington has generated considerable buzz with his compelling role in Ridley Scott’s much-anticipated sequel, Gladiator II, which also features talents like Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Connie Nielsen. Set sixteen years after the acclaimed original, the film chronicles the journey of Lucius, who must navigate the challenges of the formidable Colosseum. The release of Gladiator II has garnered commendations from critics and achieved commendable box office numbers.

In a candid conversation with Screen International, Washington highlighted a notable absence in his extensive list of nominations: he has yet to receive recognition from the British Academy Film Awards, commonly referred to as the BAFTAs. With a touch of humor, he questioned, “What’s up with that?” and reflected on whether he might have inadvertently offended someone. Nevertheless, Washington expressed contentment with the oversight, emphasizing his current focus on setting and achieving personal goals. Below is his full reflection:

Yeah, what’s up with that? Did I do something or say something bad? But listen — it’s alright. I’m looking to do my best work now, and I have enough goals and wants to reach for.

Implications for Denzel Washington’s Career

BAFTAs Have a Chance to Address This Oversight

Despite commendable efforts aimed at promoting diversity—including the 2020 BAFTA x POC initiative, which showcased over 100 posts highlighting Black talent and projects—the BAFTAs have a troubling history of overlooking performances by people of color. In the ceremony’s 76-year history, no Black woman has won the Best Actress award, and Washington, despite being a two-time Academy Award winner, has yet to receive a single BAFTA nomination throughout his four-decade tenure in the film industry.

The upcoming BAFTA Awards in 2025 offer a pivotal opportunity to rectify this oversight. Washington’s portrayal in Gladiator II has been lauded as one of his finest, and many critics consider him a strong contender for Best Supporting Actor. While current favorites like Kieran Culkin from A Real Pain may take home the honor, Washington’s nomination is well-deserved and long overdue.

Our Perspective on the BAFTAs’ Oversight of Denzel Washington

This Is Still Quite Surprising, Even If Washington Is Unfazed

Denzel Washington as Macrinus in Gladiator II — Image via Paramount Pictures

Washington’s lack of nominations remains perplexing and highlights ongoing issues regarding representation in the film industry. He is not alone; legendary actor Morgan Freeman also remains without a BAFTA nomination. It’s encouraging to see Washington maintain a positive demeanor despite the situation, yet his talent undoubtedly warrants acknowledgment. We hope that the BAFTA Awards next year will finally grant Washington the recognition he has been deserving of for many years.

Source: Screen International

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