Denzel Washington doesn’t just play powerful roles — he speaks powerful truths too.
And when he talks about his mum, it’s game over for your emotions.
In a now-viral interview, the Oscar-winning legend opened up about the woman who raised him — and honestly, we all need a moment.
“A mother is a son’s first true love,” he said. “She’s the reason I’m here, literally and spiritually.”
Denzel’s mum, Lennis Washington, was a beauty salon owner and straight-up powerhouse who kept him humble, driven, and out of trouble.
“My mother never gave up on me. She always had this calm strength, like she knew I’d be alright… even when I didn’t.”
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He credits her for everything — from his work ethic to his faith to the way he carries himself today.
“She was on me before anyone else was. She didn’t let me off the hook. And I needed that.”
And when she passed away in 2021, Denzel spoke about her with the deepest love and gratitude, saying her impact will never fade.
“Everything I am is because of God… and my mother.”
Let that sink in.
She raised a legend — and made sure he never forgot where he came from.