Denzel Washington Seeks Inspiration in Next Chapter of Career

After more than 40 years in the film industry, Denzel Washington is on the lookout for inspiration in the next chapter of his career. The Oscar winner recently shared in an interview with Empire Magazine that there are very few movies that pique his interest at this stage. However, it was director Ridley Scott, with whom he collaborated on 2007’s “American Gangster,” who sparked his interest in starring in “Gladiator II.”

Washington expressed his admiration for Scott, stating, “There are very few films left for me to make that I’m interested in, and I have to be inspired by the filmmaker, and I was tremendously inspired by Ridley.” The actor went on to praise Scott’s enthusiasm and zest for life, calling him an inspiration to all at 86 years old.

In the upcoming film “Gladiator II,” Washington portrays Macrinus, a power broker with ambitions to become Emperor, willing to go to any lengths to achieve his goal. The sequel, set in Ancient Rome, promises to deliver an epic saga of power, intrigue, and vengeance, featuring a star-studded cast including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, and Connie Nielsen.

Despite his selective approach to projects, Washington shows no signs of slowing down. In addition to “Gladiator II,” he is lined up for roles in the crime thriller “High and Low” and an untitled project with Antoine Fuqua. Furthermore, Washington is set to make his sixth appearance on Broadway in 2025, starring alongside Jake Gyllenhaal in a production of William Shakespeare’s “Othello.” With a career as illustrious as his, Denzel Washington continues to seek out new challenges and opportunities for growth in the entertainment industry.