Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington made candid revelations about his religious beliefs and their place in Hollywood through a deeply personal essay published in Esquire magazine.
The 69-year-old star opened up about his transformative spiritual journey, which began in the 1980s when fellow actor Robert Townsend introduced him to the Pentecostal West Angeles church in Los Angeles. "The biggest moment of my life was when I was filled with the Holy Spirit," Washington wrote, describing his first visit to the church.
The celebrated actor emphasized that his faith has grown stronger over time, contrary to industry trends. "God is real. God is love. God is the only way," Washington declared, adding that he feels compelled to share his beliefs with others.
Washington acknowledged that being openly religious isn't popular in entertainment circles. "You can't talk like that and win Oscars. You can't talk like that and party," he noted. Yet, he remains undeterred by potential career implications, stating firmly, "I don't care what anyone thinks."
The "Gladiator II" star challenged common perceptions about Hollywood's stance on faith. He pointed out that "Hollywood" isn't a unified entity where actors collectively discuss their beliefs. "There's no such thing called Hollywood anyway... It's not like we all meet somewhere and discuss what we believe," he explained.
While noting that religious expression may not be "fashionable" or "sexy" in the entertainment industry, Washington suggested that many industry professionals privately maintain their faith. The actor, who counts Samuel L. Jackson among his close friends, mentioned that he maintains a limited circle of actor friends and focuses on his personal convictions rather than industry expectations.
Washington's essay reveals an accomplished artist who refuses to compromise his spiritual beliefs for professional gain, offering a rare glimpse into the complex relationship between faith and fame in the entertainment industry.