Denzel Washington, a name synonymous with powerful performances and enduring charisma, is approaching a significant milestone. The acclaimed actor, known for his roles in blockbuster hits and critically lauded dramas alike, is indeed getting older, and he’s doing so with intention and a focus on well-being. As he nears his 70th birthday, Washington is openly discussing his lifestyle changes aimed at ensuring he ages gracefully and healthily.
In a revealing interview with Esquire, Denzel Washington, who was 69 at the time of the interview and celebrated his 70th birthday in December 2024, delved into his perspective on aging and the proactive steps he’s undertaking to enhance his health. This includes embracing almost a decade of sobriety and committing to a fitness regimen with a personal trainer.
Washington candidly shared his reflections on this new chapter of his life, stating, “This is the last chapter — if I get another 30, what do I want to do?” This introspection highlights his conscious decision to prioritize his health and well-being as he enters his seventh decade.
One of the pivotal changes Washington has embraced is sobriety. Having navigated a challenging relationship with alcohol, he is now approaching ten years of being sober. He openly acknowledged the impact of his past habits, stating, “I’ve done a lot of damage to the body. We’ll see. I’ve been clean. Be 10 years this December. I stopped at 60 and I haven’t had a thimble’s worth since.” Washington pinpointed wine as his primary indulgence, a habit partly fostered by the addition of a substantial wine cellar to his home in 1999.
Despite acknowledging his past indulgence, Washington clarified that his relationship with alcohol never interfered with his professional commitments. “I never drank when I was working,” he emphasized. However, he recognized that his drinking was escalating to an unhealthy level, leading to disorientation and a loss of control. This realization prompted him to decisively quit, marking a significant turning point in his lifestyle.
Beyond sobriety, Denzel Washington is also prioritizing physical fitness. Inspired by his friend Lenny Kravitz, he enlisted the help of a personal fitness trainer and commenced a structured workout routine in February of the previous year. This commitment extends beyond exercise, encompassing meal preparation tailored to his fitness goals. Washington shared his progress, stating, “He makes the meals for me and we’re training, and I’m now 190-something pounds on my way to 185.” He further revealed his motivation for this fitness drive, citing a desire to shed an image he perceived as unhealthy. Looking back at photos from the Academy Awards, Washington remarked on feeling “fat” and resolved to prioritize strength and well-being. “I feel like I’m getting strong. Strong is important,” he asserted.
This proactive approach to health is intrinsically linked to Washington’s perspective on aging and longevity. He acknowledges the reality of approaching 70 and views it as a new chapter filled with possibilities. Reflecting on his family history, he noted, “My mother made it to 97,” suggesting a hopeful outlook on his own lifespan. This personal context, combined with a broader awareness of average life expectancies – 74.8 years for males in the US according to the CDC – underscores the importance of proactive health management.
Denzel Washington’s journey exemplifies a growing trend towards prioritizing healthy aging and longevity. While the concept of immortality remains in the realm of science fiction, there’s increasing interest in extending healthspan and improving quality of life in later years. Washington’s embrace of sobriety and fitness aligns with expert recommendations for longevity, which often include abstaining from smoking, engaging in regular exercise, and fostering strong social connections. These lifestyle choices are recognized as crucial factors in promoting a longer and healthier life.
In conclusion, Denzel Washington, at the age of 70, is not merely accepting aging; he is actively embracing it with a commitment to health and well-being. His journey of sobriety and fitness serves as an inspiring example of taking control of one’s health in the pursuit of a vibrant and fulfilling life in the years to come.
