Denzel Washington says he doesn’t care about cancel culture, prioritizes faith


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Summary

Denzel Washington’s thoughts on cancel culture

When asked in a recent interview about cancel culture, actor Denzel Washington questioned the importance of public support, saying “you can’t be canceled if you haven’t signed up.”

Followers v. faith

On the topic of social media followers, Washington said he doesn’t follow anybody but “the heavenly spirit” and God.

Washington’s new film

Washington was on this press tour to promote the film “Highest 2 Lowest,” which came out on Friday.


Full story

Actor Denzel Washington, in recent interviews to promote his new movie, “Highest 2 Lowest,” sounded off on ‘cancel culture’ and fame. During the conversation with Complex News’ Jillian Hardeman–Webb, he was asked whether he cared about being canceled. 

“What made public support so important to begin with? You can’t be canceled if you haven’t signed up,” Washington said. 


When it comes to social media followers, which Hardeman–Webb called the ‘new currency,’ Washington said, “You can’t lead and follow at the same time.”

“I don’t follow anybody. I follow the heavenly spirit,” Washington said. “I follow God, I don’t follow man. I have faith in God. I have hope in man, but look around — it ain’t working out so well.”

Washington has expressed similar sentiments during other press appearances as well. Speaking on Jake’s Takes, Washington said he also doesn’t care about winning another Academy Award.

“I don’t do it for Oscars,” he said. “I really don’t care about that kind of stuff.”

He added that while “Man gives the award, God gives the reward.”

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Washington has won two Oscars, one for best supporting actor in “Glory,” and another for best actor in “Training Day.”

“People will ask me, well, where do you keep it? I say, next to the other one,” Washington said. “I’m not bragging. I’m just telling you how I feel about it. On my last day, it ain’t gon’ do me a bit of good.”

These views also extend to sports. In a recent Sports Illustrated interview, Washington said the industry has become a “world of opinionaires.”

“That’s what I call them, ‘opinionaires,” Washington said. “They’re on all the shows, a bunch of the guys, a couple that have played, but most of them who haven’t,who have an opinion about what something should be, when they haven’t done it. Those who can, do. Those who can’t, talk about those who can.”

“Highest 2 Lowest” came out in theaters Friday,available to stream on Apple TV+ Sept. 5. It currently has a 90% critic rating from Rotten Tomatoes.

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Why this story matters

Denzel Washington’s public comments on fame, cancel culture and personal values highlight ongoing debates about celebrity influence, social media, and the role of faith in public life.

Celebrity and fame

Washington addresses how public support and recognition, such as awards and social media followings, factor into a celebrity's life and priorities.

Cancel culture

Washington discusses his stance on 'cancel culture' and suggests that one's participation is a matter of personal choice, adding to wider conversations about accountability and public opinion.

Personal values and faith

His remarks on following faith over public opinion showcase how personal beliefs can guide public figures despite societal pressures and criticisms.

SAN provides
Unbiased. Straight Facts.

Don’t just take our word for it.


Certified balanced reporting

According to media bias experts at AllSides

AllSides Certified Balanced May 2025

Transparent and credible

Awarded a perfect reliability rating from NewsGuard

100/100

Welcome back to trustworthy journalism.

Find out more

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