Denzel Washington suggests Ridley Scott’s 'Gladiator II' might be his last as an actor

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Denzel Washington, the iconic two-time Oscar winner, recently hinted in an interview with Empire magazine that his days in front of the camera may be numbered.

While promoting Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel, 'Gladiator II', Washington, now 69, revealed a dwindling interest in making new films.

The action-packed epic might just be one of his final performances, signaling the end of an illustrious career that has spanned nearly five decades.

Denzel Washington hints at retirement after Ridley Scott’s 'Gladiator II'

Denzel Washington’s role as Macrinus in 'Gladiator II' may be one of his last, but it’s clear that this project holds a special place in his heart.

Known for his discerning choice of roles, Washington explained that his decision to join the cast was largely due to his admiration for director Scott.

"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," Washington said, emphasizing his selective approach to new projects.

His collaboration with Scott isn’t new; the duo previously worked together on the critically acclaimed thriller 'American Gangster' in 2007.

Their reunion in 'Gladiator II' has sparked excitement among fans and industry insiders alike, with Washington describing Scott as a source of inspiration.

"We had a great go-round the first go-round and here we are. He’s engaged. He’s excited about life and his next film. He’s an inspiration," Washington remarked, adding, "We should all want to feel like that at 86."

Washington’s focus has gradually shifted away from acting in recent years, according to the New York Post.

At the American Black Film Festival in Miami Beach this July, he candidly discussed his evolving career priorities, saying, "The things that are going on for me professionally behind the camera are as important to me now as in front of the camera. I think there’s less and less time I’ll be spending in front of the camera."

For Scott, the return to the 'Gladiator' universe is a significant milestone. The original 2000 film, which starred Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, and Connie Nielsen, won multiple Academy Awards and is considered one of Scott’s masterpieces.

Now, with the sequel on the horizon, Scott has expressed nothing but enthusiasm for the project. "It’s the best thing I’ve ever made. One of the best things. I’ve made a few good ’uns… it’s full-bore, brutal action," Scott shared with Empire.

As the excitement builds, Scott’s confidence in the sequel is palpable. At the 'Alien: Romulus' premiere on August 12, he reiterated his belief in the film’s potential, telling People, "It’s as good as the first one. I didn’t say better. It’s as good."

Denzel Washington's potential retirement sparks wave of reactions online

News of Denzel Washington’s potential retirement from acting sparked a flurry of reactions online.

On Facebook, one person remarked, "I don’t blame him, the films they’ve been making lately are stupid. Nothing out there for real adults. Everything aimed at kids and teens. I’m so sick of superheroes I could scream." Another said, "This sounds very honest and candid."

"I think this speaks more to the state of filmmaking today in his opinion than the state of his acting career," wrote one person. Another added, "Better to retire with dignity than doing crap films for decades like Robert DeNiro."

"He doesn't need the money. Now he just wants to be challenged," wrote one individual.

One person wrote, "AKA films suck now and he’s not wrong." Another pointed out, "Denzel has been superb in everything I've seen him in. I'd say he and Sean Penn our finest actors. The quality of films today is weak...I don't blame Denzel if he steps away."

One netizen stated, "I personally blame Marvel. These days it is either take a MCU/blockbuster role or no work at all."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.