Denzel Washington leads major year with 11th Golden Globe nomination

Throughout Denzel Washington’s illustrious career, the legendary actor continued to make a major impact in Hollywood.

As the 69-year-old actor received his 11th Golden Globe nomination for his work in “Gladiator II,” he set a new record, becoming the black actor with the most nominations in the ceremony’s history. prize giving. He was previously tied for the record with legendary actor Sidney Poitier.

Washington was nominated for Best Supporting Male Performance for his portrayal of Macrinus in the action film.

Meanwhile, Washington has left fans buzzing in 2024 with a number of surprising moves. From retirement to becoming a minister and everything in between, here’s a look at the Hollywood star’s year of surprises.

DENZEL WASHINGTON, STAR OF “GLADIATOR II,” HAS A GALLANT MEETING WITH KING CHARLES

Washington hinted at his departure from Hollywood after wrapping up several film projects.

In November, the Academy Award-winning actor announced on Australia’s “Today” show that he was nearing the end of his Hollywood career.

“For me, it’s about the filmmaker, especially at this point in my career,” Washington said.

“I only want to work with the best. I don’t know how many more films I’m going to make – probably not that many. I want to do things I haven’t done.”

He then discussed his upcoming roles, including Shakespeare’s “Othello” on Broadway. Washington first played the character at the age of 22 and plans to play Othello for a third time in a film adaptation.

Washington has also booked a few other projects, including playing Carthaginian general Hannibal in an upcoming Netflix project, working with director Steve McQueen on a film and a role in the third “Black Panther” film.

The actor announced that he would also play the character of King Lear in another film.

“After this, I will retire,” Washington remarked.

While Washington sent his passionate fans into a tailspin with his retirement rumors, he clarified his comments days after the “Today” interview.

“I didn’t say I was going to retire,” he told BuzzFeed. “I said it has to be a certain level of interest for me. I’m more interested in getting behind the camera, so it will take about five years.”

“It’s very difficult. And I may have used the word ‘retirement,’ but I see life in three parts: you learn, you earn, you come back. I’m in the comeback part of life.”

DENZEL WASHINGTON APPEARS TO ATTACK FANS DURING HEATING EXCHANGE IN NEW YORK

Last year, Washington appeared to get into a heated exchange with fans who tried to take photos of him and ask for his autograph in front of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

In October, the “Training Day” actor attended a benefit honoring Samuel L. Jackson.

While Washington arrived in a good mood and stopped to take a few photos for and with fans, his evening took an awkward turn when he let loose.

As he entered, Washington quickly turned around and approached a group of fans seeking autographs.

In a video obtained by Fox News Digital, Washington can be heard saying, “Put that down. I heard you. You’re talking about showing your love…respect me.”

WATCH: DENZEL WASHINGTON APPEARS TO TACKLE FANS DURING HEATING EXCHANGE IN NEW YORK

“We always do,” one fan replied.

“I said, ‘I’ll see you when I get out.’ What part of this don’t you understand? Washington said.

“Or not, or not! We can do it another way. I can do it either way, y’all,” he added before entering.

It is unclear what exactly led to this exchange.

DENZEL WASHINGTON BECOMES MINISTER AS HOLLYWOOD ACTOR ADMITS YOU CAN’T TALK ABOUT RELIGION IN THE INDUSTRY

Meanwhile, the Hollywood actor can add ministry to his impressive resume.

In December, Washington took on a new role in his life by earning his minister’s license.

Washington was baptized by Bishop James Pullings Jr. at Kelly Temple in New York.

“It’s taken a while, but I’m finally here… If (God) can do this for me, there’s nothing He can’t do for you,” Washington said, according to a video shared in line. “The sky is literally the limit.”

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Esther Renee Burns Pullings, the bishop’s wife, shared photos of the moment on Facebook.

“A beautiful service we had today at the historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ,” she captioned the photos. “We saw today our Bishop James Pullings Jr. baptize Minister Denzel Washington To God be the glory!”

Washington previously admitted that you “can’t talk” about religion in the industry.

“When you see me, you see the best I could do with what my lord and savior gave me,” the “Gladiator II” star wrote for Esquire. “I’m not afraid.”

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“I don’t care what other people think. See, talking about fear, you can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this city,” Washington added.

“I’m free now. It’s not talked about in this town. It’s not talked about… It’s not fashionable. It’s not sexy. But that doesn’t mean people in Hollywood don’t believe it. Hollywood doesn’t exist anyway. What does that mean to me, it means a street called Hollywood Boulevard,” he wrote.

Washington landed his breakthrough role in the medical drama “St. Elsewhere,” in 1982. He earned several nominations for his work on the series and was eventually able to break into acting.

Washington is known for films such as “Fences,” “The Book of Eli,” “Cry Freedom” and “Malcom X.”

WATCH: ‘GLADIATOR II’ STAR DENZEL WASHINGTON APPROACHES KING CHARLES IN GALLANT ENCOUNTER

Washington also had a memorable moment with King Charles III at the premiere of “Gladiator II.”

In November, King Charles hosted the cast of “Gladiator II” at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square in London.

During the meeting, the actors, including Washington, Pedro Pascal and Paul Mescal, as well as director Sir Ridley Scott, met with King Charles one by one. However, Washington appeared nervous when he met the royal monarch.

“I didn’t know if I was supposed to take your hand or not,” Washington smiled, shaking Charles’ hand.

“I’m just a horrible…I’m a lovely man, you’ll see,” Washington said, as he stumbled over his words. “I’m a lovely guy.”

King Charles continued the exchange and told Washington, “You’ve been in so many films, it’s fantastic.”

Washington graciously responded, “Thank you, thank you. »

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Lauryn Overhultz and Christina Dugan Ramirez of Fox News Digital contributed to this report.