The One Piece of Advice from Denzel Washington That Paul Mescal Took to Heart

During the filming of Gladiator II, rising star Paul Mescal found himself initially overwhelmed by the presence of his legendary co-star, Denzel Washington. In a moment of starstruck hesitation, Mescal recalled standing at the bottom of a staircase, trying to summon the courage to introduce himself, only to retreat to his dressing room thinking, “Not today.”

Determined, Mescal tried again the following day and finally met Washington, who greeted him warmly with a handshake and a teasing remark: “Stop working out, man.” This playful moment broke the ice and led to a conversation that left a deep impression on the young actor.

In an interview with British Vogue, Mescal reflected on what he learned from Washington. Despite the veteran actor’s immense success and stature in Hollywood, Washington approached his work with remarkable humility and a genuine desire to contribute meaningfully to the project. Rather than resting on his laurels, he remained focused on collaboration and continuous effort—a mindset Mescal believes is essential for any actor, regardless of fame or experience.

Washington’s blend of humility and strong work ethic became a guiding lesson for Mescal, reinforcing the importance of staying grounded in an industry often defined by ego and competition. As Mescal’s career continues to ascend, this encounter serves as a reminder that even the greatest talents never lose sight of the fundamentals that sustain lasting success.