Denzel Washington is sending a clear message: he’s not interested in cancel culture.
During a candid discussion with Complex, the actor criticized the very idea of being “canceled,” making it clear that public approval or social media followers don’t drive him.
When asked about the concept of being “canceled,” Washington challenged the term itself: “What does that mean — to be canceled?”
After the interviewer explained it generally meant losing public support, Washington didn’t hold back: “Who cares? Why is public support so important in the first place?”
The conversation turned to social media influence, with the reporter noting, “Followers now are currency.” Washington’s response was blunt: “I don’t care who’s following who.”
For Washington, chasing followers or popularity simply isn’t a priority.
“You can’t lead and follow at the same time, and you can’t follow and lead at the same time,” he said. “I don’t follow anybody. I follow the heavenly spirit. I follow God, not man. I have faith in God. I have hope in people, but look around — it ain’t working out so well.”
He added, “You can’t be canceled if you haven’t signed up. Don’t sign up.”
Leaning back in his chair, he laughed and said, “Don’t get me started. My chest started hurting. You know, it feels tight just talking about it.”
The Oscar winner made these remarks while sitting beside Highest 2 Lowest director Spike Lee during the interview.
Lee shared similar sentiments, stating, “I could care less.”
Representatives for Washington did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
Over the course of his remarkable career, Washington has continued to leave a lasting mark on Hollywood.
Earlier this year, he earned his 11th Golden Globe nomination for his role in Gladiator II, setting a new record as the Black actor with the most nominations in the history of the awards show.
Washington went on to win the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Macrinus in the action film.
The Training Day star previously sparked speculation among fans with retirement rumors.
“I never said I was retiring,” he told BuzzFeed. “I said it has to reach a certain level of interest for me. I’m more focused on working behind the camera, which I see happening in about five years.”
“It’s not easy. I may have used the word ‘retire,’ but I view life in three phases: you learn, you earn, and you return. I’m in the return phase now.”
