Denzel Washington's Net Worth: Exploring the Legacy of a Hollywood Icon
Discover Denzel Washington's net worth, his highest-grossing films, and his enduring impact on Hollywood as an actor, director, and producer.
By Dayana PrevalJuly 29 2024, Published 2:45 a.m. ET
Let’s face it: Denzel Washington is a GOAT in the film industry, captivating generations of fans for decades. Denzel began his acting career in 1977 after graduating from Fordham University. He started with stage performances before making his film debut in Carbon Copy in 1981. Known for his superb acting and the diverse characters he portrays, Denzel delivers every line with excellence.
His popularity soared in the 90s, and after four decades of acting, he remains a prominent figure in Hollywood. With such a successful career, what is Denzel Washington’s net worth? Let’s take a look into his life and career to find out.
Denzel attends the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Salute To Freedom Gala in 2022.
What is Denzel Washington’s net worth?
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Denzel's net worth is $300 million, with an annual salary of $60 million. His highest-paying role was in "The Little Things," which earned him $40 million despite the film's negative reviews and lack of popularity. Some of Denzel’s highest-grossing movies include American Gangster ($267.75 million), Safe House ($208 million), Deja Vu ($180 million), and The Equalizer series ($190-192 million each).
Most of Denzel’s income and success come from films, as he requests a minimum of $20 million per movie (per Business Insider). Beyond acting, Denzel shows his dedication to the industry by producing and directing. He has directed films such as Antwone Fisher (2002), Fences (2016), and A Journal for Jordan (2021).
Denzel Washington
Actor, producer, and director
Net worth: $300 million
Birth name: Denzel Hayes Washington Jr.
Born: Dec. 28, 1954
Birthplace: Mount Vernon, N.Y.
Spouse: Pauletta Washington (m. 1983)
Children: 4
Mother: Lennis Washington
Father: Denzel H. Washington, Sr.
Denzel Washington was born on Dec. 28, 1954, in Mount Vernon, New York. After graduating from Fordham University, he started his acting career in 1977. With a career spanning over four decades, Denzel is known for his versatility and outstanding performances in a wide range of roles.
Who is Denzel Washington’s wife?
Pauletta Washington is Denzel’s wife. In June 2024, the couple celebrated their 41st anniversary. Pauletta and Denzel met on the set of his first movie, Wilma, in 1977. After dating for a while, they tied the knot on June 25, 1983.
Denzel and Pauletta attend the 94th Annual Academy Awards.
Who are Denzel Washington’s children?
Denzel and Pauletta have four children together. John David Washington, perhaps the most well-known, followed in his father’s footsteps and became an actor. John initially pursued a football career at Morehouse College and signed with the St. Louis Rams in 2006. Eventually, he transitioned to film, featuring in movies like BlacKKKlansman (2018), Malcolm & Marie (2021), and Amsterdam (2022).
Katia Washington, Denzel’s oldest daughter, is also in the film industry, making her mark as a producer. She earned her first credit as a production assistant on Django Unchained in 2012. Katia also worked as a production assistant and producer on two of Denzel’s films, The Equalizer (2014) and Fences (2016). Continuing the family legacy, she co-executive produced John’s film Malcolm & Marie and co-produced her sister Olivia’s movie Breaking in 2022.
Denzel, his wife Pauletta and his four kids pose on the red carpet.
Malcolm Washington, though more private, is a film producer and is Olivia's twin. Olivia is best known for her role as Flora in I’m a Virgo and was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award in 2024. Talent clearly runs in the family.
