Emotional Denzel Washington Reflects on His Mother’s Legacy: ‘She Was There for Everything’—Watch the Full Heartfelt Moment

In an emotional appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on December 16, 2021, Denzel Washington shared a poignant reflection on the loss of his mother, Lennis Washington, who passed away on June 14, 2021, at the age of 97. As the actor promoted his film The Tragedy of Macbeth, the conversation took a personal turn when Colbert offered his condolences for the loss, leading to a deeply emotional moment that resonated with both the audience and viewers at home.

A Mother’s Love: “A Son’s First True Love”

As Washington became visibly emotional during the interview, he recalled the depth of the bond he shared with his mother, emphasizing the significance of her unwavering support throughout his life. “A mother is a son’s first true love. A son, especially that first son, is a mother’s last true love,” he said, a quote that struck a chord with the audience. His words were widely reported by major outlets like The Hollywood Reporter, Daily Mail, and People Magazine, highlighting the strong emotional connection he had with his mother and how her influence shaped his life.

Washington reflected on the consistency of his mother’s presence, noting that she “was there for everything” in his life, from his early years to his rise as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. This unwavering support, even in the face of the many challenges that Washington faced as he pursued his career, underscored how integral his mother was to his personal and professional journey.

Humor and Acceptance Amidst Grief

Though the moment was deeply emotional, Washington lightened the atmosphere with a humorous comment. He revealed that he did not cry at his mother’s funeral, joking with Colbert, “I guess I saved it up for you!” His quick wit provided a brief moment of levity, but it was soon followed by a more serious reflection on her long and fulfilling life. “She didn’t get cheated. Nor did my brother or sister,” Washington shared, demonstrating his sense of gratitude for the full life his mother had led, despite the emotional weight of her passing.

Further reflecting on their relationship, Colbert referenced a Sigmund Freud quote about a son believing himself to be his mother’s favorite. Washington responded with self-deprecating humor, saying, “I don’t know if I was her favorite, I gave her the hardest time, I can tell you that!” This moment of honesty revealed the complexities of their relationship, acknowledging both the challenges and the profound love between mother and son.

Lennis Washington’s Influence and Legacy

Lennis Washington, born in Camilla, Georgia, on April 4, 1924, was a figure of strength and independence. As part of the Great Migration, she moved to Harlem, New York, before settling in Mount Vernon, where she raised her family. Known for her entrepreneurial spirit, Lennis operated beauty parlors, demonstrating the kind of resilience and determination that would profoundly influence her son.

Washington frequently credited his mother with guiding him through difficult times, especially during his teenage years, which he described as “mischievous.” In a 2017 interview with Closer Weekly, Washington acknowledged that his mother’s firm but loving guidance helped steer him away from a potentially troubled path. She taught him the importance of doing things the right way, a lesson that shaped his values and led to his decision to deepen his faith and give up alcohol. This lasting influence on Washington’s personal and professional life was a testament to his mother’s impact.

A Family of Support and Nurturing

In addition to raising her biological children, Lennis Washington opened her heart to others, fostering two additional children, Douglas and Vanessa (Cookie) Smith, as noted in her obituary. This nurturing spirit helped create an environment of support and love that shaped Washington’s own views on family. During his Colbert interview, he shared advice to viewers to “hug them, love them,” referring to parents, underscoring the importance of cherishing those closest to us.

A Public Moment of Vulnerability

The heartfelt moment on The Late Show garnered significant media attention, with articles on platforms like Yahoo Entertainment and BET highlighting Washington’s vulnerability. Viewers on social media also expressed their emotional reactions, with one comment stating, “Crying with Denzel Washington tonight was not something I had on my agenda,” showing the deep impact of his raw emotion. Colbert’s empathetic hosting, informed by his own experiences with loss, added a layer of understanding and support, making the moment even more poignant for the audience.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Love and Strength

Denzel Washington’s reflection on his mother’s passing and their deep bond serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of parents on their children’s lives. Despite the complexities of their relationship, Washington’s love for his mother remained unwavering, evident in his public tributes and personal reflections. His emotional moment on The Late Show illustrated the profound impact of his mother’s support and guidance, and his ability to openly express his grief and gratitude touched the hearts of many. Washington’s experience speaks to the universal nature of loss and the deep love that shapes our lives, leaving a lasting legacy of affection, strength, and resilience.