“Denzel Washington is an American icon,” Howard Stringer, chair of the AFI said in a statement. “As an actor, he stands tall as a heroic, stoic embodiment of the best in all of us, and he does so with heart, humanity and one of the brightest smiles to ever light up the screen. Equally formidable as director and producer, he is a creative force to be reckoned with — and one of the most vital, relevant artists working today. AFI is proud to present him with its 47th Life Achievement Award.”
First of all, it’s about damn time. The multi-oscar winning actor will finally be bestowed with the AFI award in next summer’s Gala. The American Film Institute Board of Trustees announced that Denzel Washington will be the recipient of the 47th annual award.
Denzel has had a decorative acting career. From Training Day to Glory and The Hurricane, Washington’s ability to command the scene in a movie has earned respect from his peers and colleagues. Now, the honor of receiving a lifetime achievement award that fellow actors like Gene Kelly, George Clooney, Diane Keaton & Sean Connery have received will put Denzel amongst the greats.
You can not talk about the past 30 years of cinema without mentioning Denzel Washington’s work. His work ethic and commitment to his craft have made him one of the greatest actors of all time.