Who is the greatest living actor of our generation? For many, this question sparks endless debate, with passionate arguments for Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, or even newer icons like Leonardo DiCaprio. The answer often depends on personal taste, generational influences, and how one defines “greatness” in acting.
But for acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee, the answer is simple and clear: Denzel Washington.
The legendary director recently expressed his admiration for Washington during an interview, emphasizing not just the actor’s unparalleled talent but also the historic collaborations they’ve shared over the decades. According to Lee, Denzel is “the greatest living actor,” though he acknowledges that his friend and fellow director Martin Scorsese might feel differently — Scorsese would likely say Robert De Niro.
Spike Lee and Denzel Washington: A Partnership Written in Cinema History
Spike Lee and Denzel Washington’s professional relationship has created some of the most powerful performances and unforgettable films in American cinema. The director reflected on their collaborations, describing them as “historical” and “monumental.”
From their first project together, Mo’ Better Blues (1990), where Washington played jazz trumpeter Bleek Gilliam, to the unforgettable Malcolm X (1992), their work has often defined cultural conversations. Lee recalled these milestones proudly:
- Bleek Gilliam in Mo’ Better Blues
- Malcolm X in Malcolm X
- Jake Shuttlesworth in He Got Game (1998)
- Detective Keith Frazier in Inside Man (2006)
Each role showcased Washington’s versatility, intensity, and ability to transform into deeply layered characters. For Lee, no other actor has consistently delivered such commanding performances across genres and decades.
The Great Debate: Denzel Washington vs. Robert De Niro
While Spike Lee calls Denzel the greatest, he acknowledges the inevitability of differing opinions. “No disrespect to anybody else, but for me, Denzel’s the greatest living actor. You ask Scorsese, he’s going to say Robert De Niro. Francis Ford Coppola would probably say Marlon Brando,” Lee said.
De Niro, of course, has delivered countless masterclass performances in films like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas. Like Washington, his career spans decades, marked by collaborations with legendary directors.
The debate between Denzel Washington and Robert De Niro is not just about their talent but also about the different eras and cultural contexts in which they thrived. Washington’s roles often reflect themes of identity, morality, and resilience, while De Niro has been a quintessential figure in exploring crime, power, and flawed humanity.
A Return to Collaboration: Highest 2 Lowest
After nearly two decades apart, Spike Lee and Denzel Washington reunited for their latest project, Highest 2 Lowest, a reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low.
In this modern adaptation, Washington plays David King, a legendary music producer facing a profound moral dilemma. When kidnappers mistake the son of his closest confidant (played by Jeffrey Wright) for his own child, King must decide whether to mortgage his family’s future to pay the ransom.
The role is deeply emotional and morally complex — precisely the kind of layered character that has defined Washington’s career. According to critics, his performance in this film further solidifies Spike Lee’s claim that he is the greatest actor of his time.
The Streaming Release and Wider Audience
While Highest 2 Lowest is currently in theaters, not all fans will be able to catch it on the big screen. Fortunately, the film will be streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5, allowing global audiences to experience Washington’s performance and Spike Lee’s vision.
This release is expected to spark renewed conversations about Denzel Washington’s legacy and the impact of his collaborations with Spike Lee.
Why Denzel Washington’s Legacy Stands Apart
Denzel Washington’s career is not just defined by the roles he has played but also by the cultural significance of his performances.
- Malcolm X is regarded as one of the greatest biographical performances ever captured on film.
- His portrayal of flawed but powerful figures in films like Training Day (which earned him an Academy Award) showcases his ability to bring humanity to even the darkest characters.
- Beyond his acting, Washington has also inspired new generations of actors with his professionalism, discipline, and dedication to storytelling.
Spike Lee’s admiration goes beyond friendship — it’s rooted in a recognition of Washington’s unparalleled ability to embody characters with depth and authenticity.
The Larger Conversation: Who Defines “The Greatest”?
While Spike Lee has crowned Denzel Washington the greatest, the conversation itself reflects something bigger about cinema: greatness is subjective, shaped by personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and cinematic preferences.
Some may side with Scorsese in naming Robert De Niro, while others might point to Al Pacino, Jack Nicholson, or even contemporary stars like Daniel Day-Lewis or Meryl Streep. But for Spike Lee, whose career has intersected with Washington’s at pivotal moments, the answer will always be Denzel.
Conclusion
Whether one agrees with Spike Lee or not, there’s no denying that Denzel Washington is a titan of cinema. His roles have not only entertained audiences but also sparked cultural conversations, challenged norms, and left an indelible mark on film history.
As Highest 2 Lowest brings their legendary partnership back to the forefront, Spike Lee’s declaration feels less like a bold opinion and more like a statement of fact: Denzel Washington may truly be the greatest actor of his time.