Denzel Washington Reflects on Watching Kevin Spacey’s Oscar Win Amid Allegations

Denzel Washington has offered reflections on his experiences in Hollywood, shedding light on rumors that circulated about Kevin Spacey long before the actor’s career faced widespread controversy. Washington’s sentiments were shared in a personal essay published by Esquire on November 19, 2024, as per reports.

In the essay, Washington, aged 69, reminisced about the 2000 Oscars, when he was nominated for Best Actor for his role in ‘The Hurricane.’ However, it was Spacey who took home the award that year for his performance in the film ‘American Beauty.’

Washington expressed that the loss prompted self-reflection, particularly as he embraced a sober lifestyle over the past decade. «I’m sure I went home and drank that night. I had to,» he wrote, clarifying that his reaction wasn’t about resentment towards Spacey winning the Oscar.

Furthermore, Washington alluded to the rumors that were prevalent in Hollywood regarding Spacey’s personal life, noting, «And you know, there was talk in the town about what was going on over there on that side of the street, and that’s between him and God,» adding, «I pray for him. That’s between him and his maker.»

Spacey’s victory at the turn of the millennium for ‘American Beauty’ was his second Oscar, after his earlier win for ‘The Usual Suspects‘ in 1996. Nearly two decades later, Spacey’s reputation disintegrated following public accusations of sexual assault, beginning with Anthony Rapp in 2017, which led to a cascade of further accusations.

In 2022, a New York jury found in Spacey’s favor regarding Rapp’s accusations, and subsequent court proceedings in the U.K. also dismissed charges. Despite these legal outcomes, the controversies have significantly impacted Spacey’s career and financial situation, with the actor discussing in a 2023 interview the challenges he faces in covering legal expenses and maintaining professional engagements.

Washington’s reflections come as he anticipates the release of his upcoming film ‘Gladiator II,’ which is set to hit theaters on November 22.