Denzel Washington Says He ‘Cried a Little Bit’ When He Saw “Black Panther”: ‘Felt Like the Baton Had Been Passed’

Denzel Washington Reveals Emotional Reaction to ‘Black Panther’

Renowned actor Denzel Washington, celebrated for his portrayal of strong and dignified characters throughout his illustrious career, recently opened up about a rare and emotional moment he experienced while watching the film ‘Black Panther’. In a new Apple TV+ documentary titled ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’, Washington shared how the groundbreaking Marvel movie moved him to tears.

Washington, known for his iconic performances as real-life figures like Malcolm X and fictional characters such as Macbeth and Othello, typically embodies a stoic and intense persona on screen. However, even he couldn’t resist shedding a few tears while viewing ‘Black Panther’ in a movie theatre. The actor recalled the moment vividly, revealing that he was deeply touched by the film’s artistry and significance.

The 2018 blockbuster, directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan, made a lasting impression on Washington. Attending the premiere while simultaneously performing in a Broadway production, Washington felt a sense of pride and admiration for the younger generation of actors leading the film. He described feeling as though a symbolic baton had been passed on, acknowledging the cultural impact of ‘Black Panther’.

Reflecting on the success of the film, Washington expressed his delight at witnessing its immense popularity and critical acclaim. He highlighted the importance of diverse representation in cinema and commended the cast and crew for their outstanding contributions to the industry. Additionally, Washington hinted at his involvement in the upcoming third instalment of the ‘Black Panther’ franchise, sharing his enthusiasm for future projects.

The Apple TV+ documentary, ‘Number One on the Call Sheet’, delves into the experiences of prominent Black actors in Hollywood, featuring insightful interviews with industry legends like Eddie Murphy, Morgan Freeman, and Viola Davis. Divided into two episodes focusing on leading men and women in film, the documentary celebrates the trailblazing achievements of Black actors and honours the legacy of figures like Chadwick Boseman.

Notably, the documentary pays tribute to Boseman, who tragically passed away in 2020 at the age of 43. The collective impact of films like ‘Black Panther’ resonates deeply within the Black community, offering a sense of empowerment and representation that has historically been lacking in mainstream cinema. The documentary underscores the significance of cultural milestones like ‘Black Panther’ in paving the way for greater diversity in storytelling.

Through his emotional response to ‘Black Panther’ and his ongoing commitment to promoting inclusivity in the film industry, Denzel Washington exemplifies the enduring influence of powerful storytelling. As audiences continue to embrace narratives that resonate with diverse perspectives, Washington’s poignant tribute to the impact of ‘Black Panther’ serves as a reminder of the inherent power of cinema to inspire and unite viewers.