Denzel Washington Makes New Oscars History as the Most-Nominated Black Actor
Denzel Washington has made Oscars history again. The legendary actor extends his reign as the most nominated Black actor in Academy Awards history.
Denzel Washington scored his tenth Oscar nomination on February 8 for his role as Lord Macbeth in Joel Coen’s adaptation of The Tragedy of Macbeth, a film he adapted from the classic play by William Shakespeare. Washington is up for Best Actor. He is in great company with fellow nominees Will Smith (King Richard), Benedict Cumberbatch (The Power of the Dog), Andrew Garfield (tick… tick…BOOM!), and Javier Bardem (Being the Ricardos).
20 years ago This month Denzel Washington and Halle Berry made history becoming the First African Americans to win Best Acting Oscars! #BlackExcellence #BlackHistoryMonth #DenzelWashington #HalleBerry pic.twitter.com/iEgWNypx0y
— Zhamir Watson (@ZhamirWatson) February 3, 2022
Washington landed his first Oscar nomination back in 1988 for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Stephen Biko in Cry Freedom. The actor won his first Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 1990 for the film Glory. He won Best Actor in 2002 for his role in Training Day.
After shattering his own record, the actor released a statement about his nomination for the incredible film. He adds, “The Tragedy of Macbeth was one of the best experiences of my career. Joel Coen is a genius and I hope the nominations for this film will allow for more people to enjoy a terrific cinematic experience. Thank you to the members of the Academy for the recognition and to A24 and Apple for their ongoing support.”
Joel Coen, director of The Tragedy of Macbeth, first revealed the ominous trailer back in September. Coen’s depiction of Lord Macbeth and his wife, Lady Macbeth (Frances McDormand), had fans in awe. Many were amazed by the cinematography from the first still, and when nominations were finally unveiled, the film secured ‘Best Cinematography’ and ‘Best Production Design.’
the tragedy of macbeth best cinematography nominee SOO DESERVED pic.twitter.com/LULVcjaRsN
— maya (@TIT4NE) February 8, 2022
Washington’s historic nomination comes just one year after former Fences co-star Viola Davis became the most nominated Black actress in Oscars history. Davis landed her fourth nomination for her portrayal of Ma Rainey in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
No matter the outcome, Denzel Washington is a force in the film industry. Coen’s film, The Tragedy of Macbeth, is available to stream on Apple TV+.
Writer | Tweet me @court__giles
