History of Denzel Washington in Timeline
Denzel Washington is a highly acclaimed American actor, producer, and director with a career spanning over 40 years. He is considered one of the greatest actors of his generation, recognized for his versatility and powerful performances. Washington's accolades include two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, two Golden Globe Awards, the Cecil B. DeMille Award, and the AFI Life Achievement Award. He has also been nominated for two Primetime Emmy Awards.
December 28, 1954: Birth of Denzel Washington
Denzel Hayes Washington Jr. was born on December 28, 1954. He would go on to become a renowned actor, producer, and director, celebrated for his versatility and regarded as one of the best actors of his generation.
1968: Parents' Divorce and Change of School
In 1968, when Washington was 14, his parents divorced, and he was sent to Oakland Military Academy in New Windsor, New York, a decision he later credited with changing his life.
1970: Attended Mainland High School
Washington attended Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, Florida, from 1970 to 1971, continuing his education in a new environment.
1971: Completion of High School
Washington completed his high school education at Mainland High School in 1971, setting the stage for his future academic and career pursuits.
1976: Summer Stock Theater in Maryland
Washington spent the summer of 1976 performing in summer stock theater in St. Mary’s City, Maryland, acting in the state play Wings of the Morning.
1977: Graduated from Fordham University
In 1977, Washington graduated from Fordham University with a BA in Drama and Journalism, marking an important milestone in his educational journey.
1977: Screen Acting Debut in Wilma
Shortly after graduating from Fordham, Washington made his screen acting debut in the 1977 made-for-television film Wilma.
November 20, 1981: A Soldier's Play Premiere
On November 20, 1981, Washington performed in the Off-Broadway production of A Soldier's Play, which earned him a Distinguished Ensemble Performance Obie Award.
1982: Prominence in St. Elsewhere
Denzel Washington gained prominence in 1982 by starring in NBC's medical drama series St. Elsewhere, marking a significant milestone in his acting career.
1982: Distinguished Ensemble Performance Obie Award
In 1982, Washington shared a Distinguished Ensemble Performance Obie Award for his role in A Soldier's Play.
1982: Role in St. Elsewhere
Washington's major career break came in 1982 when he starred as Dr. Phillip Chandler in NBC's television hospital drama St. Elsewhere.
June 25, 1983: Denzel Washington Marries Pauletta Pearson
Denzel Washington married Pauletta Pearson on June 25, 1983, whom he met on the set of the television film "Wilma."
July 28, 1984: Birth of John David Washington
Denzel and Pauletta Washington welcomed their first child, John David Washington, on July 28, 1984.
1984: Role in A Soldier's Story
In 1984, Washington played a key role in the war film A Soldier's Story, further establishing his reputation as a talented actor.
1984: A Soldier's Story
In 1984, Washington appeared in the war film A Soldier's Story, further establishing his acting credentials.
November 27, 1986: Birth of Katia Washington
Katia Washington, daughter of Denzel and Pauletta Washington, was born on November 27, 1986.
1986: Hard Lessons and Power
Washington starred in the films Hard Lessons and Power in 1986, continuing to expand his filmography.
1987: Cry Freedom
In 1987, Washington starred as South African anti-apartheid activist Stephen Biko in Cry Freedom, earning a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
1988: Broadway Debut in Checkmates
Washington made his Broadway debut in Checkmates in 1988, marking his entry into the prestigious world of Broadway theatre.
1988: End of St. Elsewhere
Washington's role in St. Elsewhere concluded in 1988, marking the end of a significant phase in his television career.
1989: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
Denzel Washington won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1989 for his portrayal of an American Civil War soldier in the film Glory.
1989: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
In 1989, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film Glory. That same year, he also appeared in The Mighty Quinn and For Queen and Country.
1990: Starred in Mo' Better Blues
Denzel Washington starred in the film Mo' Better Blues in 1990, portraying a driven musician in a performance praised for its intensity.
1990: Richard III and Mo' Better Blues
In 1990, Washington starred in both the title role of Richard III at the Public Theater and in the film Mo' Better Blues, receiving high praise for his performances.
April 10, 1991: Birth of Olivia and Malcolm Washington
Denzel and Pauletta Washington welcomed twins Olivia and Malcolm on April 10, 1991.
May 18, 1991: Denzel Washington Receives Honorary Doctorate from Fordham University
Acknowledging his contributions to the arts, Fordham University, Washington's alma mater, bestowed upon him an honorary doctorate on May 18, 1991, recognizing his exceptional talent and its exploration.
1991: Mississippi Masala
Washington starred in the romantic drama Mississippi Masala in 1991, portraying Demetrius Williams and earning critical acclaim.
1991: Role in Mississippi Masala
In 1991, Washington starred in Mississippi Masala, a romantic drama exploring interracial relationships, further showcasing his versatility as an actor.
1992: Malcolm X
In 1992, Washington played the title role in Malcolm X, earning critical acclaim and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor.
1993: The Pelican Brief
In 1993, Denzel Washington starred alongside Julia Roberts in the thriller "The Pelican Brief."
1993: Philadelphia
In 1993, Washington played a lawyer defending a gay man with AIDS in the film Philadelphia, earning critical praise and contributing to the film's success.
1993: Philadelphia
Washington played a lawyer in the 1993 film Philadelphia, contributing to the film's success and earning praise for his performance.
1993: Denzel Washington Becomes Spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Washington's dedication to youth development was highlighted in 1993 when he assumed the role of national spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America, participating actively in public service announcements and awareness campaigns.
1993: Denzel Washington Begins Streak of Consecutive NAACP Image Awards
Washington's exceptional talent was recognized by the NAACP Image Awards, beginning in 1993, marking the start of consecutive wins in the Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture category.
1995: Crimson Tide
Denzel Washington starred in the thriller "Crimson Tide" with Gene Hackman in 1995.
1995: Denzel Washington Contributes to Mandela's Children's Fund and Wiley College
Washington's philanthropic endeavors extended globally in 1995 with a US$1 million donation to Nelson Mandela's Children's Fund. Additionally, he donated US$1 million to Wiley College to revive their debate team, showcasing his commitment to education.
1995: Denzel Washington Joins Boys & Girls Clubs of America Board
Further solidifying his commitment to the organization, Washington joined the board of Boys & Girls Clubs of America in 1995, taking an active role in their governance and strategic direction.
1995: Crimson Tide
Denzel Washington starred in "Crimson Tide" with director Tony Scott in 1995. This film marked the beginning of their collaborations.
1995: Denzel and Pauletta Washington Renew Wedding Vows
Denzel Washington and his wife Pauletta renewed their wedding vows in South Africa in 1995, with Desmond Tutu officiating.
1995: Denzel Washington Donates to West Angeles Church Construction
Demonstrating his religious commitment, Washington donated US$2.5 million in 1995 to support the construction of a new facility for the West Angeles Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles.
1996: The Preacher's Wife
In 1996, Denzel Washington starred in the romantic comedy "The Preacher's Wife" alongside Whitney Houston and Courtney B. Vance, directed by Penny Marshall. This film is a remake of the 1947 movie "The Bishop's Wife."
1996: Courage Under Fire
In 1996, Washington starred in "Courage Under Fire" as a U.S. Army officer investigating a female chopper commander's worthiness for the Medal of Honor, opposite Meg Ryan.
1996: Role in Courage Under Fire
Washington starred in Courage Under Fire in 1996, continuing to build his career with diverse and challenging roles.
1997: Denzel Washington's Consecutive NAACP Image Award Wins Conclude
Washington's four-year streak of consecutive wins in the Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture category at the NAACP Image Awards concluded in 1997, marking a period of significant recognition for his acting prowess.
1998: He Got Game and Fallen
Denzel Washington starred in two films in 1998: Spike Lee's "He Got Game," his third collaboration with Lee, and Gregory Hoblit's supernatural horror "Fallen."
1999: The Bone Collector and The Hurricane
In 1999, Denzel Washington starred in the crime thriller "The Bone Collector" with Angelina Jolie and in "The Hurricane," a film about boxer Rubin 'Hurricane' Carter.
1999: Denzel Washington Expresses Calling to Preach
In 1999, Washington acknowledged feeling a strong pull towards preaching, stating, "Maybe, Denzel, you're supposed to preach. Maybe you're still compromising." Despite his successful acting career, he confessed to still feeling this spiritual calling.
2000: Golden Globe Award and Remember the Titans
At the 57th Golden Globe Awards in 2000, Denzel Washington won Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama for his role in "The Hurricane." This win made him the first Black actor to win the award since Sidney Poitier in 1963. In the same year, he starred as Herman Boone, the high school football coach, in Disney's sports drama "Remember the Titans."
2000: Remember the Titans
In 2000, Washington starred in the inspirational sports drama Remember the Titans, further solidifying his status as a leading man in Hollywood.
2000: Denzel Washington Begins Second Streak of Consecutive NAACP Image Awards
Washington embarked on his second series of consecutive wins in the Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture category at the NAACP Image Awards in 2000, demonstrating his continued excellence in acting.
2001: Academy Award for Best Actor
In 2001, Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as a corrupt cop in the film Training Day, marking another significant achievement in his career.
2001: Training Day and Academy Award Win
Denzel Washington starred as the corrupt L.A. cop Detective Alonzo Harris in "Training Day" (2001), directed by Antoine Fuqua and co-starring Ethan Hawke. For this role, he won an Academy Award for Best Actor, becoming the second African-American actor to do so after Sidney Poitier, who received an Honorary Academy Award that same night.
2002: John Q and Directorial Debut with Antwone Fisher
In 2002, Denzel Washington starred in the Nick Cassavetes-directed drama "John Q" as John Quincy Archibald alongside James Woods, Robert Duvall, and Ray Liotta. This year also marked his directorial debut with the well-received drama "Antwone Fisher," in which he also co-starred.
2002: Antwone Fisher
In 2002, Washington directed and starred in the film Antwone Fisher, showcasing his talents as both an actor and a director.
2003: Out of Time
Denzel Washington starred in the thriller "Out of Time" directed by Carl Franklin and co-starring Eva Mendes in 2003.
2003: FARC Names Denzel Washington as Potential Negotiator
The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) identified Denzel Washington as one of three potential negotiators, alongside Oliver Stone and Michael Moore, for the release of defense contractors they held captive beginning in 2003. This unusual request underscored Washington's global influence.
2003: Denzel Washington Concludes Second Streak of Consecutive NAACP Image Awards
The year 2003 marked the end of Washington's second consecutive winning streak in the Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture category at the NAACP Image Awards, solidifying his status as a highly acclaimed actor within the Black community.
2004: Man on Fire
Denzel Washington and Tony Scott collaborated again in 2004 for the action thriller "Man on Fire."
2004: Man on Fire and The Manchurian Candidate
In 2004, Denzel Washington starred in two films: Tony Scott's "Man on Fire" alongside Dakota Fanning and the remake of the 1962 film "The Manchurian Candidate," where he starred opposite Meryl Streep.
2004: Denzel Washington Honors Wounded Soldiers, Supports Fisher House Foundation
In a display of respect and generosity, Washington visited wounded soldiers at Brooke Army Medical Center in 2004, participating in a Purple Heart ceremony. He also made a significant donation to the Fisher House Foundation after witnessing their work providing free housing to military families during medical treatment.
2004: Starred in Man on Fire
Washington delivered a powerful performance in the action thriller Man on Fire in 2004, showcasing his ability to handle intense and dramatic roles.
2005: Broadway Revival of Julius Caesar
In 2005, Denzel Washington returned to Broadway to play Brutus in the revival of "Julius Caesar."
2006: Inside Man
In 2006, Washington starred in the heist thriller Inside Man, adding to his repertoire of critically acclaimed films.
2006: Inside Man and Déjà Vu
In 2006, Denzel Washington starred in two thriller films: Spike Lee's "Inside Man," a bank heist movie with Jodie Foster and Clive Owen, and the time travel film "Déjà Vu," released in November.
2006: Déjà Vu
Denzel Washington and Tony Scott collaborated on the time travel thriller "Déjà Vu" in 2006.
May 20, 2007: Denzel Washington Awarded Honorary Doctorate from Morehouse College
In recognition of his achievements and influence, Morehouse College conferred upon Washington an honorary Doctor of Humanities degree on May 20, 2007.
2007: American Gangster and The Great Debaters
In 2007, Denzel Washington co-starred with Russell Crowe for the second time in Ridley Scott's crime drama "American Gangster." He received a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actor for this role. He also directed and starred in the drama "The Great Debaters" with Forest Whitaker.
2007: American Gangster and Directorial Work
Washington starred in the crime drama American Gangster in 2007 and also directed and starred in The Great Debaters, showcasing his talents both in front of and behind the camera.
2007: Denzel Washington Receives Stanley Kubrick Britannia Award
Washington was honored with the Stanley Kubrick Britannia Award in 2007 for his significant contribution to the film industry, recognizing his directorial achievements and impact.
2008: FARC's Attempt to Involve Denzel Washington in Hostage Negotiations Fails
Despite identifying Washington as a potential intermediary in 2003, FARC's efforts to secure the release of hostages through negotiations involving him proved unsuccessful, ending in 2008 without the desired outcome.
2009: The Taking of Pelham 123
Denzel Washington starred in Tony Scott's "The Taking of Pelham 123", a remake of the 1974 thriller of the same name, in 2009.
2009: The Taking of Pelham 123
Denzel Washington starred in Tony Scott's "The Taking of Pelham 123," a remake of the 1974 thriller, as New York City subway security chief Walter Garber opposite John Travolta.
June 13, 2010: Tony Award for Fences
On June 13, 2010, Denzel Washington won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his performance as Troy Maxson in the Broadway revival of August Wilson's "Fences," where he starred opposite Viola Davis.
2010: Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play
In 2010, Washington won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Play for his role in the Broadway revival of August Wilson's Fences.
May 16, 2011: Denzel Washington Receives Two Honors: Honorary Doctorate and Makes Generous Donations to Fordham
On May 16, 2011, Washington received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, he donated a substantial US$2 million to establish an endowed chair in Fordham University's theater department and a further US$250,000 to create a theater-specific scholarship, demonstrating his commitment to fostering future talent.
2012: Denzel Washington Receives Academy Award Nomination for "Flight"
In 2012, Denzel Washington starred in the film "Flight," for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal of an alcoholic airline pilot under investigation for his role in a plane crash.
2013: Denzel Washington Stars in Action Film "2 Guns"
Denzel Washington starred alongside Mark Wahlberg in the action film "2 Guns" in 2013.
June 2014: Denzel Washington Stars in "A Raisin in the Sun" on Broadway
From April to June 2014, Denzel Washington starred in the Broadway production of Lorraine Hansberry's classic drama "A Raisin in the Sun," directed by Kenny Leon.
2014: The Equalizer
In 2014, Washington starred in the action thriller The Equalizer, beginning a trilogy that would span nearly a decade.
2014: Return to Broadway in A Raisin in the Sun
Washington returned to Broadway in 2014, starring in the revival of Lorraine Hansberry's play A Raisin in the Sun.
May 18, 2015: Filming Begins for "The Magnificent Seven"
Principal photography for "The Magnificent Seven," a remake of the 1960 western film, began on May 18, 2015, in north Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
September 23, 2016: "The Magnificent Seven" Released in the United States
"The Magnificent Seven" premiered on September 8 at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival and was released in the United States in conventional and IMAX theatres on September 23, 2016.
December 16, 2016: Release of "Fences" Starring and Directed by Denzel Washington
"Fences," a film adaptation of August Wilson's play, directed by and starring Denzel Washington, was released on December 16, 2016.
2016: Denzel Washington Awarded Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the entertainment industry, Washington received the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award at the 2016 Golden Globe Awards ceremony.
2016: Directed and Starred in Fences
Washington directed and starred in the film adaptation of Fences in 2016, earning acclaim for his work both on screen and behind the camera.
2016: Directed and Starred in Film Adaptation of Fences
Washington directed, produced, and starred in the film adaptation of Fences in 2016, earning critical acclaim for his multifaceted role.
2017: Denzel Washington Stars in Legal Drama "Roman J. Israel, Esq."
Denzel Washington starred in the legal drama film "Roman J. Israel, Esq." in 2017, garnering critical acclaim for his performance.
March 22, 2018: Denzel Washington Returns to Broadway in "The Iceman Cometh"
On March 22, 2018, Denzel Washington began his starring role as Theodore "Hickey" Hickman in a Broadway revival of Eugene O'Neill's "The Iceman Cometh."
2018: The Iceman Cometh Revival
In 2018, Washington starred in the Broadway revival of Eugene O'Neill's play The Iceman Cometh, continuing his successful stage career.
2018: Denzel Washington Reprises Role in "The Equalizer 2"
Denzel Washington reprised his role as the lead character in "The Equalizer 2," the first sequel to the 2014 action thriller, in 2018.
2019: Denzel Washington Receives AFI Life Achievement Award
The American Film Institute (AFI) bestowed upon Washington its highest honor, the Life Achievement Award, in 2019, celebrating his remarkable career and contributions to film.
2020: Denzel Washington Produces Netflix Film "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom"
In 2020, Denzel Washington produced the Netflix film adaptation of August Wilson's play, "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom," starring Chadwick Boseman and Viola Davis.
2020: Named Greatest Actor of the 21st Century
In 2020, The New York Times named Denzel Washington the greatest actor of the 21st century, recognizing his extensive and versatile career on screen and stage.
October 11, 2021: Denzel Washington Named Honorary Sergeant Major of the Army
On October 11, 2021, the United States Army bestowed upon Washington the distinguished title of Honorary Sergeant Major of the Army, recognizing his unwavering support for the Fisher House Foundation and his embodiment of humility, dedication to soldiers, and respect for the Army.
December 25, 2021: Release of "A Journal for Jordan," Directed by Denzel Washington
Denzel Washington directed the drama film "A Journal for Jordan," based on the memoir by Dana Canedy, which was released in theaters on December 25, 2021.
2022: Denzel Washington Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom
Adding to his long list of accolades, Washington was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2022, recognizing his significant contributions to American society.
2022: Denzel Washington Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom
In 2022, Washington was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, acknowledging his exceptional contributions to American society.
2023: Denzel Washington Completes "The Equalizer" Trilogy
Denzel Washington starred in "The Equalizer 3," the third and final installment of "The Equalizer" franchise, in 2023.
2023: Denzel Washington Joins Cast of Ridley Scott's "Gladiator 2"
Denzel Washington was cast in Ridley Scott's historical epic "Gladiator 2" in 2023.
2023: Conclusion of The Equalizer Trilogy
Washington concluded The Equalizer trilogy in 2023, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career.
2024: Denzel Washington to Star in Spike Lee's "High and Low" Remake
Denzel Washington is set to reunite with director Spike Lee for a remake of Akira Kurosawa's 1963 film "High and Low" in 2024.
2025: Denzel Washington to Star in Broadway Revival of "Othello"
Denzel Washington is scheduled to return to Broadway in the spring of 2025, portraying the title role in a revival of William Shakespeare's play "Othello."