Denzel Washington has weighed in on cancel culture, offering a blunt, faith-rooted response that is likely to spark more conversation than controversy.
In a recent interview with Complex about his new film, the two-time Oscar winner said he pays little mind to the online storms that can derail careers overnight. His verdict was simple: “You can’t be cancelled if you never signed up.”
Denzel Washington pushed back against the idea that public approval should drive an artist’s choices. “Who cares? What made public support so important to begin with?” he asked.
When the interviewer suggested that followers have become the new currency, Washington was equally dismissive. “I don’t care who’s following whom. You can’t lead and follow at the same time, and you can’t follow and lead at the same time. I don’t follow anybody. I follow the heavenly spirit. I follow God; I don’t follow man,” he stressed.
He closed the point with a memorable line: “You can’t be cancelled if you haven’t signed up. Don’t sign up.”
Director Spike Lee joined him for the conversation and echoed a similar indifference to the cancel culture conversation.
Washington’s remarks reflect a recurring theme in his recent interviews: a focus on craft, faith and long-term purpose rather than chasing likes or headlines. In a career that spans stage and screen, he has often emphasised steadiness and perspective over the latest trends.
Reaction to his stance is mixed. Supporters praise the actor for refusing to bow to performative outrage and for reminding audiences that a lifetime of work matters more than viral moments. Critics say his view risks downplaying the role public accountability can play for people without his platform or power.
The comments arrive as Washington promotes the A24 drama Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee, which opens in mid-August 2025. He also remains linked to other major projects, keeping him squarely in the cultural conversation. Love him or disagree with him, Washington’s message is clear.
At 70 he is honing his work and guarding his principles, and he prefers patience to panic. For many fans, that is a welcome reminder that longevity in the arts often depends on consistency, not the daily noise of social media.
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