Denzel Washington, widely celebrated for his intense and stoic portrayals in films like Malcolm X, Rubin Carter, Macbeth, and Othello, had a surprisingly emotional reaction upon watching Black Panther.
In the newly released two-part Apple TV+ documentary, Number One on the Call Sheet, the Gladiator II star shared a profound moment where he found himself deeply moved by the groundbreaking film.
“I cried a little bit when I saw Black Panther,” Denzel Washington admitted, referring to the 2018 blockbuster starring Chadwick Boseman and Michael B. Jordan, directed by Ryan Coogler.
Reflecting on the past, Washington recalled the time he met Boseman and Jordan backstage, where they shared a meaningful conversation. Later, as he sat down to watch the film, he found himself overwhelmed with emotion.
Sharing his thoughts, the Equalizer actor said, “I felt like the baton had been passed. I was like, ‘Wow, these young boys are gone,’ you know.” The veteran actor expressed admiration for the new generation of Black talent shaping the industry and the legacy that was being carried forward.
Denzel Washington, who has long been an influential figure in Hollywood, further elaborated on his feelings. “I felt, I don’t know if the word is ‘relieved,’ but I was proud to see what they had done and seeing where they were headed,” he said.
The two-time Oscar winner reflected on that significant moment, revealing that it reassured him about the future of cinema. “You know, I didn’t know then they were gonna make a billion dollars, but they did,” Washington said with a smile. “So that, uh, that was a special moment for me.”
Washington also shared exciting news about his potential involvement in the Black Panther franchise. In a previous interview with Australia’s Today Show, he mentioned that Ryan Coogler is currently writing a role for him in the upcoming third installment of Black Panther.
Number One on the Call Sheet, which premiered on March 28, 2025, offers a deep dive into the experiences of Black actors in Hollywood. With Denzel Washington’s heartfelt reflections and his admiration for rising stars, the documentary highlights his lasting impact on the industry while also looking toward its promising future.