Denzel Washington blasts cancel culture: ‘I follow God, not followers’

Hollywood legend Denzel Washington has made it clear: cancel culture has no power over him.

In a sit-down with Complex alongside longtime collaborator Spike Lee, the Oscar-winning actor dismissed the obsession with public approval, insisting that his life is guided by faith, not followers.

When asked if he fears being canceled, Washington fired back:

“What does that mean, to be canceled? Who cares? What made public support so important to begin with?”

The interviewer pressed that in today’s world, “followers are currency,” but Denzel was unmoved.

“I don’t care who’s following who. You can’t lead and follow at the same time. I don’t follow anybody. I follow the heavenly spirit. I follow God. I have faith in God. I have hope in man, but look around  it ain’t working out so well.”

With a chuckle, he added: “You can’t be canceled if you haven’t signed up. Don’t sign up.”

Spike Lee, seated beside him, simply shrugged: “I could care less.”

For Washington, this is nothing new. Throughout his career, the Training Day star has been outspoken about choosing faith, family and craft over the fickle tides of public opinion.

His convictions haven’t slowed his shine either. Earlier this year, he notched his 11th Golden Globe nomination for Gladiator II, making history as the most-nominated Black actor ever. He later clinched Best Supporting Actor for his role as Macrinus.

And for those betting on retirement? Not so fast. Washington told BuzzFeed he’s not stepping away yet, though he’s shifting his focus.
“I didn’t say I was going to retire. I said it has to be a level of interest for me. I’m more interested in getting behind the camera — maybe five years out. Life has three parts: you learn, you earn, you return. I’m in the return part of life.”

With cancel culture raging across Hollywood, Washington’s blunt dismissal is bound to spark conversations — and maybe a few uncomfortable truths.