In a deeply moving and rare moment of vulnerability, Hollywood icon Denzel Washington opened up about the profound influence of his late mother, Lennis Washington, in a recent interview that has left audiences around the world touched and inspired. The Academy Award-winning actor, celebrated for his commanding performances in films such as Glory, Training Day, and Malcolm X, became visibly emotional as he shared heartfelt memories of his mother’s unwavering love, sacrifices, and guidance that shaped him into the man and artist he is today.

“She was there for everything,” Washington said, his voice breaking as he fought back tears. “From my earliest memories to the biggest moments of my career, she was my rock. She believed in me when I doubted myself, pushed me when I wanted to give up, and sacrificed so much to give me a chance at a better life. Everything I am, everything I’ve accomplished, I owe to her.”

The intimate interview, which has quickly gone viral, offered a rare glimpse into the personal life of a star known for his privacy and stoic demeanor. Washington, who grew up in Mount Vernon, New York, spoke at length about his mother’s relentless dedication to her family. As a single mother and the owner of a local beauty salon, Lennis Washington worked tirelessly to provide for Denzel and his siblings. “She’d be at the salon all day, sometimes late into the night,” he recalled. “But no matter how tired she was, she always made time for us. She’d show up to my basketball games, my school plays, even parent-teacher conferences, with a smile on her face. She never let us feel like we were missing anything.”

Washington shared poignant anecdotes that painted a vivid picture of his mother’s strength and character. He recounted how she encouraged his early interest in the arts, even when he was unsure of his path. “I was just a kid messing around, doing little skits with my friends,” he said. “But she saw something in me. She’d say, ‘Denzel, you’ve got a gift. Don’t waste it.’ She was the one who pushed me to audition for community theater, and that’s where it all started.” Her belief in his potential, he said, gave him the confidence to pursue acting, a career that would eventually earn him two Oscars and global acclaim.

Beyond her role as a supporter, Washington credited his mother with instilling in him the values that continue to guide his life. “She taught me about integrity, about faith, about working hard even when no one’s watching,” he said. “She wasn’t just my mom; she was my moral compass. When I’m faced with tough decisions, I still ask myself, ‘What would Mom say?’” He also spoke of her resilience in the face of adversity, noting how she navigated challenges as a Black woman raising a family in a tough environment. “She never complained,” he said. “She just kept going, kept praying, kept believing that things would work out. That’s the kind of strength I try to carry with me.”

The emotional weight of the interview was palpable as Washington reflected on his mother’s passing in 2021. “Losing her was the hardest thing I’ve ever been through,” he admitted, pausing to compose himself. “But even now, I feel her with me. Every role I take, every project I work on, I do it to make her proud. Her legacy lives on in everything I do.” He also shared a touching story about a letter she wrote him years ago, which he keeps close to this day. “She wrote, ‘Denzel, you’re destined for greatness, but don’t forget where you came from.’ I read that letter whenever I need a reminder of who I am.”

The interview has struck a chord with fans and viewers, sparking an outpouring of love and admiration on social media. Many have praised Washington for his raw honesty and the universal message of gratitude for the unsung heroes in our lives. “Seeing Denzel Washington get emotional about his mom is so powerful,” one fan posted. “It reminds us all to honor the people who sacrifice for us.” Another wrote, “This is why Denzel is a legend—not just for his talent, but for his heart.”

The full interview, available here, captures every tearful and heartfelt moment of Washington’s tribute to his mother. It’s a testament to the enduring bond between a mother and son, and a reminder of the profound impact of parental love and support. For those who have followed Washington’s illustrious career, this moment offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the roles—a man whose success is rooted in the lessons and love of a remarkable woman, Lennis Washington. Her legacy, as her son so eloquently expressed, continues to shine brightly through his work and his life.