Denzel Washington's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Denzel Washington.

Denzel Washington is a highly acclaimed American actor, producer, and director recognized for his powerful dramatic performances. He has earned significant recognition, including two Academy Awards, a Tony Award, and numerous other accolades. In 2020, The New York Times lauded him as the greatest actor of the 21st century. He has received the Cecil B. DeMille Award, the AFI Life Achievement Award, the Honorary Palme d'Or and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His films have collectively grossed over $5.1 billion worldwide, solidifying his status as a major figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 18, 1991: Honorary Doctorate from Fordham University

On May 18, 1991, Denzel Washington was awarded an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Fordham University, for his multifaceted talent.

May 20, 2007: Honorary Doctorate from Morehouse College

On May 20, 2007, Denzel Washington received an honorary Doctorate of Humanities from Morehouse College.

2007: Co-starring in American Gangster and Directing The Great Debaters

In 2007, Denzel Washington co-starred with Russell Crowe in Ridley Scott's crime drama "American Gangster", earning a Golden Globe nomination. In the same year, 2007, he also directed and starred in "The Great Debaters" with Forest Whitaker.

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2010: Starring in Fences, The Book of Eli, and Unstoppable

In 2010, Denzel Washington played Troy Maxson in the revival of August Wilson's "Fences", winning a Tony Award. Also in 2010, he starred in "The Book of Eli", a post-apocalyptic action-drama, and in "Unstoppable" as a veteran railroad engineer.

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May 16, 2011: Honorary Doctor of Arts Degree from the University of Pennsylvania

On May 16, 2011, Denzel Washington received an honorary Doctor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

2012: Starring in Flight and Safe House

In 2012, Denzel Washington starred in "Flight", receiving an Academy Award nomination, and co-starred in "Safe House", preparing for his role with intense methods.

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December 16, 2016: Release of Fences

On December 16, 2016, Denzel Washington's directed film "Fences", in which he reprised his role as Troy Maxson, was released by Paramount Pictures, earning him multiple award nominations and winning Viola Davis her first Academy Award.

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2017: Starring in Roman J. Israel, Esq.

In 2017, Denzel Washington starred in the legal drama "Roman J. Israel, Esq.", receiving critical acclaim for his performance and earning multiple award nominations.

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March 22, 2018: Broadway revival of The Iceman Cometh

Beginning March 22, 2018, Denzel Washington starred as Theodore "Hickey" Hickman in a Broadway revival of Eugene O'Neill's "The Iceman Cometh".

October 11, 2021: Honorary Sergeant Major of the Army

On October 11, 2021, the United States Army made Denzel Washington the 2021 Honorary Sergeant Major of the Army at the Annual Association of the U.S. Army conference for his work with the Fisher House Foundation.

2022: Presidential Medal of Freedom delayed

In 2022, Denzel Washington was supposed to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, but it was delayed.

2024: Starring in Gladiator II and Producing The Piano Lesson

In 2024, Denzel Washington starred in Ridley Scott's epic historical drama "Gladiator II", earning a Golden Globe nomination. In the same year, 2024, he also produced "The Piano Lesson", a Netflix film adaptation directed by his son Malcolm Washington.

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