In a revealing interview, Denzel Washington shared the drastic impact a recent severe injury had on his speech and acting.
Actor Denzel Washington disclosed a severe tongue injury that has notably influenced his speech and performance in a Broadway play, Page Six reported.
During an episode of the New York Times' "The Interview" podcast, Washington, who is now 70, described how he accidentally bit his tongue nearly in half a few months ago. The incident has not only caused considerable physical discomfort but has also significantly affected his way of communicating and his current project.
Washington explained that the injury forced him to slow down his speech. This adaptation has become central to how he now speaks and interacts, impacting his personal and professional life deeply.
One of Washington's current projects is the Broadway revival of "Othello," where he is facing challenges with his lines. The swelling of his tongue has made it difficult to deliver his performance as originally intended.
He highlighted a specific challenge with the line, “Whither will you that I go to answer this your charge?” This line, as he explained, has been tough to articulate clearly because of the swollen state of his tongue.
No details were provided on how the injury occurred, nor did Washington mention receiving any medical treatment for the severe bite. This lack of information leaves some aspects of the situation unclear, particularly regarding any long-term implications for his health.
While discussing his injury and its effects, Washington also reflected on his faith, which has played a crucial role in coping with the incident. He indicated that the injury reinforced his belief in the importance of daily prayer and introspection concerning divine intentions.
This personal reflection ties into how Washington views his career and life, suggesting that his faith helps guide his moral and professional compass. He remarked, "At this point, everything I’m doing is through the lens of what God thinks, not what they think," illustrating his approach to balancing public expectations with personal convictions.
Moreover, Washington shared insights into his acting philosophy, emphasizing genuine reactions and interactions as central to his method. His focus on authenticity in performance aligns with how he navigates his roles, despite current physical limitations.
Discussing "Othello," Washington revealed that the director, Kenny Leon, aims to set the play shortly, adding layers of modern relevance to its timeless themes of jealousy, envy, and betrayal. This contemporary adaptation seeks to resonate with present-day audiences by contextualizing these emotions in today's digital age.
Washington expressed great admiration for Leon, describing him as complicated yet brilliant, someone who fully grasps the directorial challenges of such a complex play. His trust in Leon’s vision further illustrates his commitment to the project, regardless of his current personal challenges.
The actor delved into how he prepares for roles, particularly highlighting why he avoids memorizing lines too early in the rehearsal process. “I don’t like to learn the lines too soon,” he explained, “because then I’m the voice I’m listening to delivering the cues to myself. I want to hear it from you, and that’s going to affect how I say what I say.” This method, he believes, enhances the authenticity of his performance.
Washington's approach to both life and acting demonstrates a profound alignment between his personal values and professional methodology. Despite the physical setbacks caused by his tongue injury, his dedication to his craft and his philosophical insights into the workings of human emotions remain undeterred.
As he continues to navigate these challenges, Washington's story is not just about an actor overcoming adversity but also about a profound engagement with faith, the art of performance, and the interpretation of classic literature under new lights.
