Josh Brolin Reveals Near Fight with Denzel Washington on Set of American Gangster

LOS ANGELES, CA – Actor Josh Brolin disclosed that a tense incident almost escalated into a physical confrontation with Denzel Washington while filming the 2007 crime drama American Gangster. During an interview on the show In Depth, Brolin recounted the event, emphasizing that he and Washington now enjoy a good relationship.

“Denzel and I, by the way, get along very well now,” Brolin said during the interview. “We almost got into a fight.” The film, directed by Ridley Scott, is based on the true story of Frank Lucas, portrayed by Washington, a drug kingpin who dominated the heroin trade in Harlem during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Brolin played an undercover detective attempting to bring him down.

Brolin described filming as an exciting opportunity to work alongside talented actors he admired, but the atmosphere on set turned intense at times. “Working with Denzel was a thrill, but we had our moments,” he added, reflecting on the pressure and dynamics of portraying challenging roles in such a high-stakes environment.

Despite the tensions, Brolin acknowledged the experience helped him grow as an actor. “It was a heavyweight encounter,” he joked, now seeing the lighter side of the situation that once seemed daunting.

This revealing moment adds a layer of insight into the behind-the-scenes experiences of American Gangster, highlighting how even seasoned actors can navigate conflicts during the filmmaking process.

The film continues to be remembered for its gripping portrayal of crime and morality, with both Brolin and Washington delivering memorable performances that left a lasting impact on audiences.