Denzel Washington delivers viral lesson on being 'gangster' to young fan at film premiere

TORONTO, CANADA: Denzel Washington recently went viral for his insightful and candid response to a young fan’s unexpected question.

During the premiere of 'The Last Piano' in September, the 69-year-old actor took a moment to engage with eight-year-old Liam, a kid reporter for Virgin Radio's 'Daryn & Deepa' show.

Denzel Washington's advice for young reporter

Despite being in a rush to attend the screening, Denzel Washington quickly stopped to chat with Liam as the young fan asked him, “I’ve heard American Gangster is a good movie. How can I be a Canadian gangster?”

Washington, known for his iconic portrayal of New York drug kingpin Frank Lucas in the 2007 film 'American Gangster', immediately seized the opportunity to offer some valuable advice.

“You shouldn’t be a gangster. You’re too smart to be a gangster,” the actor replied.

The Oscar-winning actor, then shifted the conversation, asking Liam about his favorite school subject, and correctly guessed that the child’s interests lay in math and science.

When the young reporter revealed his ambition to enter the medical field, Washington added, “It’s better to be a doctor than a gangster. Okay? Never want to be a gangster.”

Denzel Washington's role in 'American Gangster'

Denzel Washington’s response to Liam’s question was particularly notable given his role in 'American Gangster', the biographical crime drama directed by Ridley Scott.

In the 2007 film, Washington portrayed the real-life New York City drug kingpin Frank Lucas, a performance that earned him critical acclaim.

'American Gangster', which co-starred Russell Crowe, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Idris Elba, and several other Hollywood heavyweights, was a box office hit, grossing $269 million globally.

The movie also received two Academy Award nominations, including a nod for Best Supporting Actress for the late Ruby Dee.

Denzel Washington's red carpet appearance at TIFF

Denzel Washington's interaction with Liam took place at the premiere of 'The Last Piano' during the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where he was in attendance to support his sons, John David and Malcolm Washington, who starred in and directed the film.

The event marked a rare red carpet appearance for Washington, who was joined by his wife Pauletta, 73, their sons John David, 40, and Malcolm, 33, and their daughter Katia, 37, according to Daily Mail.

Internet praises Denzel Washington's interaction with young fan

Denzel Washington and Liam's exchange quickly went viral, with netizens praising the actor for imparting wisdom to the young boy in such a thoughtful manner.

Under the Instagram post by Virgin Radio Toronto, one user wrote, "He will remember that interaction for the rest of his life," and another penned, "Denzel is made of Gold."

"Denzel is built different. In the best way possible," a netizen commented, while someone else wrote, "Class act Denzel Washington."

"Love Denzel…Pure Awesomeness!" an individual remarked, and another opined "Denzel is a treasure!! 🫶 And Liam, way to go!"

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