Denzel Washington, an Academy Award-winning actor, is not only a Hollywood icon but also a devoted family man. Known for his unforgettable performances in films like Training Day and Mo’ Better Blues, Washington has carved a niche for himself as one of the greatest actors of all time. His personal life, particularly his long-standing marriage to Pauletta Washington since June 1983, has also drawn admiration from fans. The couple, who first met in 1977, has four children: John, Katia, and twins Malcolm and Olivia.
Meet the Washington children
While Katia prefers to stay out of the limelight, she has made her mark in the film industry behind the scenes, earning production credits on her father’s acclaimed film, Fences. Olivia, on the other hand, has stepped into the acting spotlight, landing roles in popular television series such as “Empire” and films like The Butler and The Little Things.
Interestingly, John and Malcolm initially pursued careers in sports before embracing their family’s artistic legacy. John Washington, for instance, had a brief but notable stint in professional football.
John Washington: From NFL to acting
Before stepping into the world of acting, John David Washington was a talented athlete. He played multiple sports during his time at Campbell Hall School in Los Angeles, excelling in football and basketball. After graduating, he attended Morehouse College, where he focused solely on football, becoming a standout running back. In his senior year, he set a school record with an impressive 1,198 rushing yards.
In 2006, John joined the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent. His journey in the NFL was tumultuous; he was cut from the team shortly after joining but later re-signed to the practice squad. He also played in NFL Europe and the United Football League, showcasing his dedication to the sport until 2012.
Despite his commitment to football, John’s passion for acting never waned. He finally made his acting debut in the HBO series “Ballers” in 2015, which paved the way for his breakout role in BlacKkKlansman. In this critically acclaimed film, he portrayed a Black police officer who infiltrates the Ku Klux Klan, earning him nominations for prestigious awards like the Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Award.
John’s filmography continued to grow with roles in The Old Man & the Gun and Tenet. His latest project, The Piano Lesson, premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival in August 2024 and is set for a theatrical release in November. This film is particularly significant as it marks his brother Malcolm’s directorial debut.
Malcolm Washington: The rising filmmaker
Malcolm Washington’s journey began on the basketball court, where he was a standout player at Windward School, earning accolades such as the MVP at the 2009 Windward Winter Classic Tournament. He continued his athletic career at the University of Pennsylvania, where he played basketball while studying film. After leading his college team to a state championship, Malcolm decided to pivot towards filmmaking.
After graduating, Malcolm started his career in the film industry as an assistant director on short films like The Last Bookstore and Trouble Man. His big break came in 2017 when he worked as an assistant to renowned director Spike Lee on the series She’s Gotta Have It. During this time, he also created his own short film, Benny Got Shot, which won him the Filmmaker to Watch award at the Atlanta Film Festival.
With his latest project, The Piano Lesson, Malcolm explores profound themes of family and heritage, focusing on the struggle over an antique piano that symbolizes their ancestors’ sacrifices. The film features performances by both John and Samuel L. Jackson, and its compelling narrative positions it as a strong contender for future Academy Awards.
The Washington legacy
The Washington family exemplifies a legacy of talent, determination and creativity. From Denzel’s iconic roles to his children’s burgeoning careers in film and sports, the family’s influence continues to inspire many. As they navigate their paths in the entertainment industry, the Washingtons remind us of the power of passion and the importance of family support in achieving one’s dreams.
