Denzel Washington has broken a historic barrier with his latest Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor in Gladiator II. This marks his 11th nomination, setting a record for Black performers and surpassing the legendary Sidney Poitier, who held 10 nominations throughout his illustrious career.
“Before I even worked with Sir Ridley Scott, I was a fan of his movies and his talent,” Washington shared after learning of the nomination. “But then he invited me into his tent—most recently into his Colosseum of Gladiator II—and the entire experience has been stunning.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Washington has long been celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most accomplished actors, earning Golden Globe wins for Glory (1989) and The Hurricane (1999). His latest nomination comes for his portrayal of Macrinus, a former slave turned revolutionary, in Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated sequel to the 2000 classic, Gladiator. The film also stars Paul Mescal as Lucius, picking up two decades after the events of the original.
“The sheer size of this particular production and the incredible cast of actors and crew he assembled, not to mention what he literally built of ancient Rome, humbles me—it humbled me every day on set,” Washington said, reflecting on the scale of the production. “And giving me Macrinus—to embody, to enjoy, to create—what an incredible honor this is, and has, been.”
Washington’s role in Gladiator II has been met with widespread acclaim, with critics praising his ability to bring depth and gravitas to every character he portrays.
Denzel Washington Has No Plans to Retire
Despite his monumental achievements, Washington has clarified he has no immediate plans to retire. “I didn’t say I was going into retirement,” he explained, noting that he remains selective about his roles. “I’m more interested in getting behind the camera, so that’s about five years out.”
Washington’s historic nomination further cements his status as one of the most respected and enduring talents in Hollywood. The 2025 Golden Globe Awards will air live on January 5, celebrating a career that continues to inspire and break new ground.