Denzel Washington Extends Record as Most-Nominated Black Actor in Oscars History

Are you able to say iconic? Denzel Washington continues to make historical past as a Hollywood legend, now breaking his personal report for Oscar nominations. As of Feb. 8, Washington now has 10 profession nominations underneath his belt (in addition to two wins), making him probably the most nominated Black actor in Oscar historical past! He is been nominated for the Academy Awards in each decade because the ’80s.

This 12 months, Washington is up for finest actor in a number one position for “The Tragedy of Macbeth,” a class the place he is up in opposition to Will Smith’s “King Richard” portrayal. The seasoned actor beforehand scored his ninth nomination in 2018 for starring in “Roman J. Israel, Esq.” Regardless of his record-breaking accomplishment, Washington hasn’t gained an Oscar in 20 years, final successful a statue for “Coaching Day” in 2002.

It’s going to be attention-grabbing to see if Washington breaks his 20-year streak this 12 months. However even along with his newest achievement, there’s nonetheless a lot to be achieved to help different Black actors and actors of colour within the Academy’s lead classes. Halle Berry is one other esteemed actor who made historical past as the primary Black girl to win an Academy Award for finest actress in 2002, however sadly, no different Black girls have gained the award since. Throughout ABC’s “Soul of a Nation Presents: Display Queens Rising” particular, Berry even mentioned that she’s “fully heartbroken” over the jarring statistic. So hopefully, Washington’s embellished legacy will inspire the Academy to appoint extra Black actors to make extra historical past within the close to future.