Denzel Washington Says He Doesn’t Care About Oscars: “They Won’t Matter When I Die”

Hollywood legend Denzel Washington is no stranger to accolades, with nine Oscar nominations and two wins under his belt. But according to him, awards like the Oscars hold no real meaning in his life or career decisions.

In a recent interview with “Jake’s Takes” during the promotional tour for Highest 2 Lowest, Washington said plainly:

“I don’t do it for Oscars. I don’t care about that kind of stuff.”

For Washington, the work has always mattered more than the recognition. And in a career spanning decades, that mindset hasn’t changed.

Man Gives the Award. God Gives the Reward.

Washington continued his candid take by reflecting on the unpredictability of award wins. He admitted there were times he won when he didn’t deserve it — and times he should’ve won but didn’t.

“Man gives the award. God gives the reward,” he said.
“People ask me, ‘Where do I keep the Oscars?’ Well, next to the other one. I’m not bragging! Just telling you how I feel.”

He emphasized that awards, including the Oscars, won’t mean anything at the end of his life.

“On my last day, they’re not going to do me a bit of good.”

Washington Dismisses Oscar Snub for Gladiator II

Earlier this year, Washington made headlines again—not for a nomination, but for being snubbed. Many expected him to receive a Best Supporting Actor nod for Gladiator II, but it didn’t happen.

Was he upset? Not at all. His response to The New York Times was full of dry humor:

“Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset,” he said sarcastically.
“I’m happy for all that did [get nominated], and I’m happy with what I’m doing.”

Once again, it’s clear: Denzel Washington doesn’t care about Oscars, and never has.

A Philosophy Rooted in Purpose, Not Praise

Washington’s attitude isn’t just for show — it’s a long-held philosophy. His Training Day co-star Ethan Hawke recalled a moment from Oscar night years ago that still sticks with him.

Hawke, who lost Best Supporting Actor that night, said Washington leaned over and told him:

“It’s better that you didn’t win. Losing was better.”

According to Hawke, Washington believes success should never be measured by external approval:

“You don’t want an award to improve your status. You want to improve the award’s status.”

It’s a powerful mindset — one that turns the usual Hollywood chase for validation on its head.

Washington’s Focus Remains on the Work

Now promoting his latest film Highest 2 Lowest, which releases in select theaters August 15 via A24 and Apple Studios, Washington continues to show that his passion lies in the storytelling itself.

The film will stream on Apple TV+ starting September 5, but whether it earns Oscar attention is irrelevant to Washington.

As his career proves, impact and legacy matter more to him than any trophy.