Denzel Washington may be taking some time away from acting in the near future. At least, that’s what people are saying after his appearance at the American Black Film Festival.
On Sunday June 16, 2024, Washington sat down for a conversation with Chaz Ebert, businesswoman and widow to the late film critic Roger Ebert. During their conversation, Washington opened up about his involvement with the upcoming film, The Piano Lesson. The film adaptation of the classic August Wilson play will feature his son, Malcolm Washington, directing his peer, Samuel L. Jackson, and his other son, John David Washington. His daughter, Olivia, is also expected to appear in the film. The 69-year-old father of four has cherished the experience despite wanting to jump in and help at times.
“As a parent, as a father, you want to jump in,” Washington told Ebert.
“It’s hard letting them go.”
Washington will produce The Piano Lesson, but he will star in Gladiator II in November. As he ventures further behind the camera, instead of in front of it, the legendary actor has hinted at taking a break on-screen roles.
“The things that are going on for me professionally behind the camera are as important to me now as in front of the camera,” Washington explained.
“I think there’s less and less time I’ll be spending in front of the camera.”
Washington’s impending break from acting comes after a busy run. From 2010 to 2023, he’s starred in 13 films, including The Book of Eli, Flight and three iterations of The Equalizer franchise. Not to mention, IMDb has him down for three more movies in the next two years.
