Denzel Washington Shrugs off “Gladiator II” Oscar Snub: “The Beginning of Wisdom Is Understanding”

Denzel Washington is not bothered one bit by his Oscar snub for his stellar role in “Gladiator II.”

While some were surprised by his exclusion from the Best Supporting Actor race at the 2025 Academy Awards, Washington remains unbothered. Speaking to The New York Times, he brushed off the omission with humor.

“Are you kidding me? Awww. Oh, I’m so upset,” Washington joked. “I’m happy for all that did, and I’m happy with what I’m doing.”

With decades in Hollywood and two Oscars under his belt, Washington sees the bigger picture.

“Listen, I’ve been around too long. I don’t wanna say other fish to fry, but there’s a reality at this age,” he reflected. “The beginning of wisdom is understanding. I’m getting wiser, working on talking less and learning to understand more — and that’s exciting.”

His passion remains firmly rooted in the craft, with Broadway providing all the fulfillment he needs.

“I was sitting there smiling going: ‘Look at you. On the day you didn’t get a nomination for an Oscar, you’re working on ‘Othello’ on Broadway.’”

Though the Academy overlooked him, Washington’s iconic portrayal of Macrinus in “Gladiator II” earned nominations at the Golden Globes, Critics Choice, NAACP Image, and Satellite Awards. He wasn’t the only one snubbed for this film. “Gladiator II” received just one Oscar nomination, for costume design.