“From a rough upbringing, Denzel Washington struggled through much of his schooling, falling so low in university that they suggested he “take a break,” informs a website.
“He didn’t. Instead, he pushed through, never gave up, and went on to become one of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood today.”
Denzel was honored last week at the 47th American Film Institute Life Achievement Award Gala at the Dolby Theatre.
AFI Board of Trustees selects an honoree with this criteria in mind.
“The recipient should be one whose talent has in a fundamental way advanced the film art; whose accomplishment has been acknowledged by scholars, critics, professional peers and the general public; and whose work has stood the test of time.”
This event has saluted Tom Hanks, Clint Eastwood, Meryl Streep, George Lucas, Barbra Streisand, Sidney Poitier, Jack Nicholson, Steven Spielberg, Elizabeth Taylor, Bette Davis, Orson Welles, dozens more. An event for the ages.
Acknowledging Denzel’s talent were Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx, Michael B. Jordan, Jodie Foster, Cicely Tyson, Morgan Freeman, Spike Lee, others.
A native of Mount Vernon, New York, Denzel’s talent has led to two Academy Awards (Glory, Training Day).
In time past, he’s reflected, “The chances you take, the people you meet, the people you love, the faith that you have. That’s what’s going to define you.”
He added, “Don’t aspire to make a living, aspire to make a difference.”
Our distinguished cine-citizens are in need of a spanking. Why do they hide backstage from the cameras, as they did at the AFI Gala (i.e. Julia Roberts, Jamie Foxx, Beyonce), when they are here to lend their fame in appreciation for friend/co-star Denzel.
Dumb and Dumber, isn’t it?
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