Morgan Freeman is one of the iconic black actors known for his brilliant screen performances and distinctive baritone voice. However, in an interview, Freeman revealed that he was “jealous” of veteran actor Denzel Washington’s career.
She shared that Washington, 17 years her junior, “does what I want to do.” Freeman admired his co-star’s performance, highlighting his ability to captivate audiences. Unlike Washington, Freeman began his career in an era with strict restrictions on screen performances for black actors.
Read on to learn more.
‘He Did What I Wanted
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In an interview with The Sunday Times, Morgan Freeman, the famous actor best known for his roles in films like “A Good Person” starring Florence Pugh, opened up about feeling jealous of fellow actor Denzel Washington, 68.
During his conversation with the news channel, per Insiderthe 85-year-old reflects on his career trajectory and admires Washington’s accomplishments, saying he’s “so envious of Denzel’s career because he’s doing what I want to do.”
The “Shawshank” star revealed he found Washington impressive as he watched the young man continue to take on ambitious projects and collaborate with famous directors such as Steve McQueen and Paul Thomas Anderson, even in the “autumn of life.” Freeman voiced his desire to pursue equal opportunities.
Morgan Freeman’s Early Career In The Hays Code Era
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Washington, who is 17 years younger than Freeman, has a much different experience in acting. Freeman’s early career coincided with the Hays Code era in the US. As reported by NPRHays Code policies imposed strict restrictions on the content of major film studios, including a ban on on-screen interracial romance.
This policy lasted almost four decades, from 1934 to 1968. As a result, Freeman’s early acting years had a significant impact, mainly consisting of theater work and a role in the children’s show “The Electric Company.”
It wasn’t until Freeman was 52, won a Golden Globe, and received an Oscar nomination for his iconic role in 1989’s “Driving Miss Daisy” that he began landing more ambitious and prominent roles. Since then, his career has taken off, and Freeman has starred in over 100 films, including such iconic films as “The Shawshank Redemption,” “Million Dollar Baby” and “Bruce Almighty.”
Instead, Washington’s career began in an era without Hays Code restrictions. Her great performances in films like “Glory” and “Training Day” made her famous, cementing her reputation as one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, known for her versatility and range.
Morgan Freeman Acknowledges Progress Made By Black Actors
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While Freeman admits to being a little jealous of Washington’s success, he also acknowledges the significant progress black actors have made in Hollywood.
Reflecting on his childhood, Freeman shared, “When I was growing up, there was no ‘me’ in movies. If there’s a black man in a movie, he’s funny. Until Sidney Poitier came along and gave young people like me the idea that, ‘OK, yes, I can do it.'”
Recalling past conversations with the late Poitier, Freeman shared, “And I talked to Sidney in the back. He said, ‘I want to be like you. The actor continued, “But generationally, we’re moving forward by leaps and bounds… LGBTQ, Asian, black, white, interracial marriage, interracial relationships. All are represented. You see them all on the screen now, and that’s a huge leap.”
Morgan Freeman Calls Denzel Washington ‘Extraordinary Actor’
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Freeman has been a constant pillar of support for his co-stars in the 1989 film “Glory.” In 2019, during the 47th AFI Lifetime Achievement Awards ceremony honoring Washington, Freeman was in attendance and praised Washington’s extraordinary talent.
In an interview with Access Hollywood on red carpet, every Insider, Freeman expressed admiration for Washington’s ability to connect with the audience through his performance on a deep level, stating, “He makes a connection with you.” Freeman praised Washington as an exceptional actor, highlighting his unique ability to captivate audiences with his on-screen presence.
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Source: thtrangdai.edu.vn/en/
