Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be ‘gangster’ like him

Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him

As a longtime admirer of the Washington family’s talents and dedication to their craft, I found myself utterly captivated by the images from the premiere of Malcolm’s directorial debut, “The Piano Lesson.” Having followed Denzel’s career for decades, it’s always a delight to witness his continued success in interpreting works as profound and impactful as August Wilson’s.


Denzel Washington went viral for his very candid response when a young fan asked him how to be ‘gangster’ like him.

Last month, the 69-year-old acting legend attended the premiere of The Last Piano where he supported his sons who each starred in and directed the film.

Despite appearing to be pressed for time, he paused to engage in a conversation with the young reporter, Liam from Virgin Radio’s Daryn & Deepa show, as seen in an Instagram video.

The Oscar-winner gave the child the opportunity to ask a question as the youngster queried: ‘Hi, I’m Liam. I’ve heard American Gangster is a good movie. How can I be a Canadian gangster?’

In a swift response, Denzel said, “It’s not wise for you to be a gangster. Given your intelligence, you’re better suited elsewhere. Could I ask what your preferred school subject is?

Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him

After discovering that his preferred areas of study were mathematics and science, the skilled actor inquired whether the child aspired to become a physician.

When the young journalist expressed his aspiration to work in the medical field, Denzel replied with a suggestion: “It’s more beneficial to become a doctor rather than a gangster, you understand? I wouldn’t recommend being a gangster.

Liam has recently appeared on the social platforms associated with the radio program “Daryn & Deepa,” broadcast on Virgin Radio (99.9 FM) within the Greater Toronto Area, as well as nationally on iHeartRadio.ca and the iHeartRadio Canada mobile application.

Host Deepa Prashad expressed her feelings after watching the clip, saying, ‘This was a powerful moment that touched my heart, seeing so many journalists backing little Liam.’

A multitude of admirers were moved by the encounter, with some expressing that it would be etched in Denzel’s memory forever, as one put it.

Instead, many replies jokingly pointed out that Denzel mistakenly thought the child, who is of Asian descent, enjoyed math and science, which can be perceived as reinforcing a stereotype.

One commenter replied: ‘What’s your favorite subject… math and science? I see you Denzel [two rolling on the floor emojis]’

Another said: ‘Why did my guy Denzel assume the Asian kid’s favorite subject was math? [thinking face emoji] But luv him and gonna let Unc slide on this one.’ 

Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him

In the 2007 crime drama titled “American Gangster,” directed by Ridley Scott, Denzel Washington played the role of Frank Lucas, a powerful drug lord based in New York City.

The movie featured a star-studded cast that included Russell Crowe, Josh Brolin, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Ruby Dee, Cuba Gooding Jr., Idris Elba, Common, and Tip ‘T.I.’ Harris as co-stars alongside the A-lister.

The film proved to be both a commercial and critical triumph, raking in $269 million at worldwide box offices and garnering two Academy Award nominations in 2008 – one for Best Achievement in Art Direction and another for the late Ruby Dee in the category of Best Supporting Actress.

At the same time, during the premiere where Denzel interacted with Liam, the actor from Training Day made a relatively uncommon appearance on the red carpet with most of his immediate family present at TIFF.

At the gathering, Denzel was accompanied by his wife Pauletta, aged 73, along with their sons John David (40 years old) and Malcolm (33), as well as their daughter Katia (37).

Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him

Everyone was present at the grand opening of Malcolm’s first directorial venture titled “The Piano Lesson,” where John David plays an important part.

The movie was created by Denzel, known for his extensive experience in bringing August Wilson’s plays to life on stage.

On that particular day, it was just Malcolm’s immediate family members who were snapped on the red carpet, except for his twin sister Olivia.

The story centers around a black family residing in Pittsburgh during the final stages of the Great Depression, delving into their lives and a conflict that arises amongst them at home.

Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him
Denzel Washington has very candid response when young fan asks him how to be 'gangster' like him

The main point of contention revolves around an ornate piano, intricately carved by the great-grandfather of the family leader, who himself was a former slave.

In the film, it’s Samuel L. Jackson who takes on the role of the father, while John David is cast as the son and Danielle Deadwyler portrays the part of the daughter.

Instead of keeping the piano out of sentimentality, the daughter desires to hold onto it. On the other hand, the son expresses a preference for selling the piano so they can purchase land that was historically associated with their ancestors’ enslavement, instead.

Last year, Denzel and Pauletta, having just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, radiated the picture of a contented union as they graced the red carpet together.

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2024-10-15 17:34

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