In the film industry, Denzel Washington and Leonardo DiCaprio are icons who have built their careers through very striking roles and performances. They are admired not only for their successful films, but also for their real dedication. Each one follows a different path and both have never been associated with sequels or franchises.

Denzel Washington in The Equalizer (Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc.)

This would be no big deal, however, this curiosity ended up putting them in a different category for fans. Even with an opinion from DiCaprio implying that his colleague is incomparable, it’s surprising to see Denzel Washington in second place.

Leonardo DiCaprio’s Unique Way of Praising Washington’s Intensity

Leonardo DiCaprio in The Great Gatsby (Warner Bros. Pictures)

It was during an interview with Men’s Journal, that the actor Jamie Foxx spoke about having interviewed Denzel Washington on his old show Off Script, and praised him for his great reputation within the industry. In doing so, he didn’t leave out the fact that Leonardo DiCaprio had also commented at one point about the great actor being an inspiration. However, his way of praising Washington seemed truly distinctive.

Even Leonardo DiCaprio talked about it with me. He’s a producer on Robin Hood. He said, ‘Hey pal. You know Denzel scares me.’ I said. ‘Why?’ And Leo says, ‘He just looks like he could rip your throat out if he wanted to.’

However, DiCaprio’s admiration for Washington is not just limited to his intimidating presence. He recognizes that this quality contributes significantly, and his intensity is one of the reasons why he is such a respected and feared actor in Hollywood. Denzel Washington is often a great reference point for many actors in the industry.

Still, even though he is recognized by both colleagues and other artists in the field, in other ways, Denzel Washington doesn’t seem to be the definitive protagonist when it comes to a rather peculiar category. The irony is that he comes second to none other than DiCaprio himself.

Denzel Washington’s Take on Being Right Behind Leonardo DiCaprio

Denzel Washinghton in Litte Things (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Despite never having worked together, Denzel Washington and Leonardo DiCaprio are two actors well known for their roles in single films. Up until a certain point, it was very clear that both of them were not keen on taking part in franchises, but that changed with The Equalizer getting a sequel in 2018.

I don’t know what that is. Obviously I guess when you have a name, Spider-Man or something, some name brand thing there is that potential. I mean you don’t look at Training Day and go I’m going to do Training Day 2. I don’t look at it that way, I never have.

The actor said he preferred to focus on making the best movie possible, without worrying about sequels the production might have. He expressed that the priority is always to create a good movie initially.

Other than that, both Hollywood stars were also the two among the highest-earning stars to take this approach.

Although all of this information was brought up to Washington, especially the fact of appearing in second place in the category, during an interview with Screen Rant, he didn’t seem to care. In a joke about the fact that DiCaprio could be disqualified from taking part in Critters 3, the actor claimed that he would tell DiCaprio about his opinion.