Denzel Washington Reflects on Faith, Career, and a Lesson for His Younger Self

“Pray More”: The Advice He’d Give His Younger Self

After nearly five decades in Hollywood, Denzel Washington has no shortage of accolades—two Oscars, countless iconic performances, and a career that’s spanned from Glory to Training Day to The Equalizer. But when asked what wisdom he’d pass on to a young Denzel, the answer wasn’t about craft, ambition, or industry politics.

“Pray more. That’s it. Pray more,” Washington told Extra while promoting his new film Highest 2 Lowest. “Get on your knees more.”

It’s a simple directive that carries profound weight for the 70-year-old actor, who last year obtained his minister’s license and deepened his commitment to his Christian faith.

A Milestone Year in Faith

Just days before Christmas, Washington was baptized at Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ in Harlem, NY—a moment he described as both humbling and transformative. “In one week, I turn 70. It took a while, but I’m here,” he told Archbishop Christopher Bryant, according to Page Six. “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”

His wife, Pauletta Washington—his partner of 46 years—was by his side, publicly expressing her pride. “You are the head of our house, and you have set a great example for our children,” she said, noting that their four adult children have grown up understanding “the difference” because of the faith and values they were shown at home.

Speaking Faith in a Town That Stays Quiet

Washington has never shied away from discussing his beliefs, even if he admits they’re not “fashionable” in Hollywood. In a past Esquire interview, he reflected on the industry’s discomfort with openly religious conversations:

“When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my Lord and Savior. I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks… You can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party… It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe.”

Back in the Saddle with Spike Lee

Faith aside, Washington remains firmly in the game. Highest 2 Lowest, directed by Spike Lee, marks their fifth collaboration. In the film, Washington plays a music mogul targeted in a ransom plot. The star credits Lee with assembling a powerhouse cast—including Wendell Pierce, Jeffrey Wright, Michael Potts, and A$AP Rocky—and giving them the freedom to create.

“I don’t want to say, ‘Just like old times,’ but you know, you’re back in the saddle,” Washington said. “He leaves me alone… and just lets it rip.”

For Washington, the message is clear: while awards and roles may define a career, it’s the deeper connection—to God, to family, to purpose—that defines a life. And if he could go back and tell a young Denzel anything, it wouldn’t be about fame or fortune—it would be about faith.