Hollywood actor Denzel Washington has opened up about stepping back from acting at 70, revealing that he wants to devote more time to interests beyond being in front of the camera.
The veteran actor said he has reached a stage in his life where he wants to explore other creative pursuits, including writing books, watching sunsets and spending more time behind the camera.
“I have other interests. I have books I want to write. I have sunsets I want to watch,” Washington said.
Rather than describing his next chapter simply as retirement, Washington has indicated that he wants to redirect his energy toward producing and filmmaking.
He has also spoken about his long-standing ambition to produce all of the plays written by acclaimed American playwright August Wilson, whose work has been closely associated with Washington’s career.
Washington, who has enjoyed one of Hollywood’s most celebrated acting careers, said he is increasingly comfortable allowing other performers to take the spotlight.
“I’ve been out front long enough… I love seeing other people do well. I’m at peace,” he said.
The actor’s comments reflect a different perspective on success after decades spent as one of the most recognisable faces in American cinema.
For Washington, the next stage appears to be less about being the person audiences see on screen and more about creating opportunities for other artists while pursuing projects that matter to him personally.
His comments also suggest that stepping away from the centre of the spotlight does not necessarily mean walking away from filmmaking altogether.
Instead, Washington is looking toward a chapter where writing, producing and mentoring can take a larger place in his creative life.
