“Very Few Films Left for Me to Make”: Why Denzel Washington Is Turning to Streaming for Creative Freedom
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
As the entertainment industry rapidly evolves, few actors have embraced the streaming revolution as thoughtfully and strategically as Denzel Washington. The four-decade Hollywood veteran—renowned for his commanding performances, production prowess, and directorial vision—is now navigating the digital landscape with a keen eye on creative freedom and cultural impact.
From Big Screen to Streaming Screens
Traditionally a fixture of theatrical releases, Washington has steadily expanded his presence on streaming platforms in recent years. While blockbuster hits like The Equalizer 2 (2018) continue to find renewed audiences via Netflix, he’s also taken on projects designed specifically for the digital age. For example, The Little Things (2021) premiered simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max, showcasing his ability to straddle both worlds.
In June 2025, Washington’s involvement in streaming was highlighted when his film Virtuosity was promoted on a major streaming channel, underlining his ongoing engagement with digital distribution.
Producing for a New Generation
Washington’s shift toward streaming isn’t limited to acting. His production company, Mundy Lane Entertainment, has championed culturally significant stories for these platforms. The critically acclaimed Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020), starring Chadwick Boseman and Viola Davis, was a Netflix exclusive that cemented Washington’s reputation as a producer committed to representation and depth.
More recently, The Piano Lesson (2024), featuring Washington alongside his sons, also debuted on Netflix, signaling a personal and artistic investment in storytelling through streaming. Upcoming projects like Highest 2 Lowest (2025) for Apple TV+ and a Netflix adaptation of Hannibal—directed by frequent collaborator Antoine Fuqua—showcase his growing footprint across diverse streaming services.
| Production Company | Streaming Platform | Film/Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mundy Lane Entertainment | Netflix | Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020) | Produced, starred Chadwick Boseman |
| — | Netflix | The Piano Lesson (2024) | Featured Washington and sons |
| — | Apple TV+ | Highest 2 Lowest (2025) | Upcoming project |
| — | Netflix | Hannibal (upcoming) | Directed by Antoine Fuqua |
Championing Diversity Through Streaming
Washington has been vocal about streaming’s transformative role in increasing opportunities for Black creatives in Hollywood. In January 2022, he stated on social media that streaming “increases opportunities for blacks in the industry of cinema,” recognizing how digital platforms democratize storytelling and elevate underrepresented voices.
Balancing Theatrical Tradition with Innovation
Despite his streaming ventures, Washington hasn’t abandoned traditional cinema. His recent film Gladiator II (2024), co-starring Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal, enjoyed a classic theatrical release, maintaining his connection to the big screen. However, he has acknowledged a narrowing pool of projects that spark his interest. As he told Variety in 2024, “There are very few films left for me to make that I’m interested in,” suggesting a pivot toward the creative freedom streaming affords.
His upcoming role in Black Panther 3—a project straddling theatrical and streaming distribution—epitomizes the blurred lines shaping the industry’s future.
Conclusion
Denzel Washington’s embrace of streaming is not merely a career adjustment but a thoughtful evolution. By blending cinematic tradition with cutting-edge digital projects, he remains artistically relevant while expanding his influence behind the camera. His advocacy for diversity and his strategic production choices position him as a key figure shaping entertainment’s future.
As audiences increasingly favor streaming, Washington offers a masterclass in adapting without compromise—a true icon evolving with the times.
