Denzel Washington may be on the brink of receiving an Academy Award nomination for a film he did not star in, following his recognition at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards in the “Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role”category. His participation in Gladiator II, where he portrays Macrinus—a gladiator owner and arms dealer with aspirations of seizing power in Rome—has generated significant buzz, potentially paving the way for an Oscar nod.
The character of Macrinus has a compelling backstory; he was once enslaved by the esteemed Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius before eventually attaining his freedom. Washington’s portrayal injects depth and intrigue into Macrinus, making him one of the most memorable figures in the film. It has been proposed that Washington’s performance could merit a nomination for Best Actor, and there’s also the possibility of another nomination for a film he produced.
Potential Oscar Glory for *The Piano Lesson*
Denzel Washington as a Producer
The film *The Piano Lesson* made its debut at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2024 and will be available on Netflix in November. Currently holding an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes (via Rotten Tomatoes), the film marks a significant family collaboration, being directed by Washington’s son, Malcolm, and featuring another son, John David, in a starring role. Denzel served as the producer, underscoring the project’s familial ties.
The narrative revolves around Boy Willie, who journeys from Mississippi to Pittsburgh to see his sister Berniece. Tensions arise between the siblings as they deliberate selling their family’s treasured piano. The film’s poignant exploration of family dynamics and heritage has captivated critics, bolstering its chances for a Best Picture nomination at the 2025 Academy Awards. Given Denzel Washington’s role as a producer, he may once again find himself in the running for Oscar nominations.
Continuing a Trend: Best Picture Nominations for Washington
Success Through August Wilson Adaptations
In 2015, Washington established a partnership with the estate of playwright August Wilson to adapt the entire ten-play series known as The Pittsburgh Cycle. This endeavor began with the 2016 film *Fences*, which received critical acclaim and numerous nominations at the 2017 Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Washington himself. The film portrays Troy Maxson and his struggles within his family and community.
| August Wilson’s Pittsburgh Cycle Plays | Set In (Decade) |
|---|---|
| Gem of the Ocean | 1900s |
| Joe Turner’s Come and Gone | 1910s |
| Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom | 1920s |
| The Piano Lesson | 1930s |
| Seven Guitars | 1940s |
| Fences | 1950s |
| Two Trains Running | 1960s |
| Jitney | 1970s |
| King Hedley II | 1980s |
| Radio Golf | 1990s |
Washington’s second adaptation, *Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom*, released in 2020, also garnered numerous award nominations, although it did not achieve a Best Picture nod. It received acclaim for its performances, with nominations for both Best Actor and Best Actress. With the potential for *The Piano Lesson* to be nominated in 2025, this would not only highlight Washington’s ongoing impact in the realm of adaptations but also align with his successful legacy of bringing Wilson’s work to the cinematic forefront.
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