Actor Denzel Washington becomes minister. Admits you ‘can’t talk’ about religion in Hollywood

The Oscar winner, and a huge movie legend Denzel Washington is a man with deep spiritual convictions. Now he becomes a licensed minister

Denzel Washington is embracing a new chapter in his life—and it’s not a role for the silver screen. The 69-year-old Hollywood icon, celebrated for his performances in Training Day and the upcoming Gladiator II, took a significant spiritual step on Saturday when he was baptized at Kelly Temple in New York City. During the ceremony, he also received his minister’s license.

Dressed in a gray T-shirt and black sweatpants, Denzel shared a heartfelt message with the congregation before his baptism. Reflecting on his faith journey, he admitted, “It took a while, but I’m finally here.” He spoke about his transformation as a testament to God’s power, encouraging others with his words: “If [God] can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you. The sky literally is the limit.”

Denzel Washington has been baptized and received his minister’s license.

He is now Minister Denzel Washington. pic.twitter.com/2iZttabW17— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) December 22, 2024

Denzel Washington’s spiritual milestone was made even more special with the support of his wife of 41 years, Pauletta Washington, who stood proudly by his side during the emotional ceremony.

“Forty-six years later, here I’m still standing next to him as only God will have it,” Pauletta shared, her words highlighting the couple’s enduring bond and unwavering faith.

Denzel is not afraid of people’s criticism
Denzel Washington’s baptism marked a significant milestone in his spiritual journey, one he has spoken about candidly in recent months. In a November interview with Esquire, the two-time Oscar winner reflected on how his faith shapes his life, even amidst the often superficial world of Hollywood.

“I don’t care what anyone thinks,” Denzel Washington boldly stated, addressing the challenges of discussing faith in his industry. “Talking about the fear part of it—you can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town.”

Washington, however, emphasized his newfound freedom in expressing his beliefs. “I’m free now. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not talked about. It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe,” he said.

Congratulations Denzel Washington on getting baptized 🙏🏼

Amazing! pic.twitter.com/xeQhiTSXk5— TONY™ (@TONYxTWO) December 23, 2024

Denzel also dismissed the very notion of “Hollywood” as a cohesive entity, writing, “There’s no such thing called Hollywood anyway. What does that even mean? That, to me, means a street called Hollywood Boulevard.”

The Equalizer star’s baptism has been met with widespread praise from fans and faith communities, further solidifying his reputation as a man who leads by example—both in his craft and his personal life.