Denzel Washington: 'All money isn't good money'

Denzel Washington discussed his career choices and the influence of financial needs on them. In an interview with CNN, while promoting Spike Lee's new film, Highest 2 Lowest, the actor explained that at certain times in his career, his roles were dictated by necessity rather than passion.

'My mother used to say, 'Do what you have to do, so you can do what you want to do – not the other way around,' he stated. Washington admitted that when he had four children, he took on some jobs he 'had' to do to meet his family's financial needs.

The actor emphasized that he does not see success solely as a financial goal, noting that 'all money isn't good money.' He underscored the importance of choosing jobs that align with one's values when circumstances allow, but acknowledged that sometimes you 'have to put food on the table,' even if it means participating in films that are not an artistic challenge.

Today, as he says, he is in a calmer phase of his life and avoids overexposure, advising younger actors not to 'give away' their image for free.