Aside from asserting how unrecognizable Denzel Washington looks, netizens have also expressed concern for the actor, who recently spoke about starring in “Gladiator II.”
Hollywood legend Denzel Washington, 69, stepped out in New York City on October 23 (2024) to attend the Museum of Modern Art’s 16th Annual Film Benefit. While some agreed that the “Training Day” star looked handsome, they were thrown off by his lack of hair and his physique, which many think has changed remarkably.
User comment about Denzel Washington, posted on October 24, 2024 | Source: Facebook/AmoMama Nostalgia
Opting for a classic black suit with sleek tailoring, Washington looked polished. Deviating from his usually short hair, he sported a bald look, which had the public doing a double-take.
Denzel Washington at The Museum of Modern Art’s 16th Annual Film Benefit in New York City on October 23, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
What was equally noticeable was his seemingly slimmer frame, which fans believe is leaner than what they remember.
Upon seeing our side-by-side image showing the “Man on Fire” star’s new look at the film event and his widely-recognized appearance in a snap from 2022, AmoMama readers were quick to express their surprise and uncertainty over the actor’s changed appearance.
One reader questioned whether the man in the 2024 picture was even Washington at all, writing, “Is it really Denzel on the NOW photo? That ones head is longer, more oval, much more narrower, nose is smaller. I give it to age for the more wrinkles as I have some too, but to me, it doesn’t look like that handsome Denzel, although handsome, whomever he is [sic].”
Denzel Washington | Source: Getty Images
“Does not look like him,” remarked another. Someone else penned, “He needs hair! He no longer looks like a hunky man, just ordinary,” while another reader opined, “Sorry, looks like a different person [sic] better with hair!”
Denzel Washington | Source: Getty Images
Many also chimed in with concerns about how his appearance without hair seemed to affect his overall look. “Like him better with hair!! Without makes him look older, but it’s his choice!!!” stated a reader, while another echoed, “Oh no. Grow that hair back! It doesn’t even look like him. Looks like he may have lost weight. Thinner face.”
Denzel Washington | Source: Getty Images
Some readers expressed worry over Washington’s health. “He seems quite a bit slimmer. Hopefully, that was intentional.
Wishing him good health & many more special moments,” commented a spectator.
Denzel Washington | Source: Getty Images
Another added, “Maybe he is sick, he looks thinner than before 
.” Others expressed similar concerns, with one person noting, “He’s lost weight as well, so it makes him look even older… Still my guy.”
“Wow he must have lost weight his face is thinner [sic]! Facial coloring is even different. Hard to believe the photos are of the same person,” added someone else. However, some readers viewed the actor’s transformation in a positive light.
Denzel Washington | Source: Getty Images
“This shows he has lost weight, to be healthier. And the shaved head shows he’s matured to a handsome distinguishable gentleman [sic]. Very handsome!!!” gushed a Facebooker.
Still, the overall reaction to his physical changes was summed up by a comment that read, “He definitely does not look the same. In a way [sic] he looks older.”
Denzel Washington speaking during The Museum of Modern Art’s 16th Annual Film Benefit. | Source: Getty Images
Before stepping out for the 16th Annual Film Benefit, Washington participated in a Q&A session, where he opened up about his role in the upcoming sequel “Gladiator II.”
Denzel Washington participating in the Q&A session during the Special Screening of “Gladiator II” in New York on October 21, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
The film, which continues the legacy of Ridley Scott’s 2000 classic “Gladiator,” promises to be just as action-packed and intense as its predecessor.
Set in ancient Rome, the story follows Lucius, a young man whose home is conquered by tyrannical emperors. Forced into the Colosseum as a gladiator, Lucius must draw strength from his past to restore Rome’s former glory.
In the movie, Washington plays Macrinus — a wealthy arms dealer with a dark past as a former gladiator, who is determined to manipulate Rome’s power structure for his own gain.
During the Q&A, Washington humorously described his character, disclosing, “He’s misunderstood. He’s a nice fellow. He’s trying to use everybody. He’d use his mother, he’d use his own children; he’s already used up his soul, so he didn’t have any left. He’s in bed with the devil.”
“The Manchurian Candidate” actor also spoke about the immersive experience of shooting on life-sized sets in Malta.
“When you would walk around, you were in Rome, and it seemed like 10,000 extras and horses. It was make-believe, it was play, it was fun; just put the gear on, put the dress on and go, that’s the way I look at it. I’m putting this dress on, these rings, and I’m going crazy,” divulged Washington.
Adding to the anticipation is the trailer for “Gladiator II,” which was released on July 9 (2024). The thrilling preview showcases gladiators clashing in intense battles, with visually stunning scenes that highlight the scale and ferocity of the ancient Roman world.
It also features an impressive cast of A-list actors, including Paul Mescal and Pedro Pascal, alongside Denzel Washington. The electrifying trailer hints at an epic, high-stakes adventure, sure to captivate audiences when the film hits theaters.
