Denzel Washington takes a stand against cancel culture
He spoke candidly in a recent interview while promoting his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest , alongside director Spike Lee.
Complex News asked Washington if he worries about being 'cancelled,' and he responded with unshaken confidence, asking, 'What does that mean, to be cancelled?'
Upon the interviewer explaining that being cancelled means losing public support, Washington simply replied, 'Who cares?', according to People.
He challenged the importance of public approval by questioning, 'What made public support so important to begin with?'
His stance underscores a detachment from the social media-driven obsession with followers and popularity.
In the interview, Washington further elaborated, 'You can't lead and follow at the same time, and you can't follow and lead at the same time.'
The 70-year-old actor declared he follows 'the heavenly spirit' and God rather than man.
He said, 'I have faith in God. I have hope in man, but look around, it ain't working out so well.' He firmly advised, 'You can't be cancelled if you haven't signed up. Don't sign up.'
The Oscar winner's scepticism about public opinion was evident as he laughed and confessed to feeling tightness in his chest when the topic arose.
Spike Lee agreed, stating that he 'couldn't care less' about cancel culture.
Denzel Washington's resolute attitude extends to awards as well. Recently, he stated he is 'not that interested in Oscars.'
Having been nominated 10 times and won two Oscars, he remarked, 'Man gives the award. God gives the award. I'm not that interested in Oscars.'
Denzel Washington's perspective resonates strongly in an era dominated by social media pressures and public scrutiny.
His emphasis on faith and inner conviction rather than external validation offers a powerful message of resilience and self-assurance.
As Highest 2 Lowest hits theatres worldwide and fans can witness Washington's enduring talent, free from the constraints of public opinion or cultural trends.
Washington boldly reminds us that true leadership comes from within, not from being 'followed,' in a world obsessed with virtual followers and public approval.
Denzel Washington's response to cancel culture is a call to focus on what truly matters: faith, integrity, and staying true to oneself.
This is more important than chasing the often fleeting approval of the crowd.
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