Here’s a bold statement: the bond between Delroy Lindo and Denzel Washington is more than just a friendship—it’s a masterclass in resilience, collaboration, and the power of staying true to oneself. But here’s where it gets controversial: in an industry notorious for competition and ego, these two titans have thrived by lifting each other up. So, what’s their secret? Let’s dive in.
Denzel Washington, known for his deliberate distance from pop culture frenzy, made a rare exception by hosting his first-ever movie screening for Ryan Coogler’s Sinners at the Harmony Gold theater. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t just about the film—it was about honoring a 48-year friendship with Delroy Lindo. When Coogler asked Washington to host, the answer was an immediate yes, driven by their shared history at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco and their ties to Spike Lee. While their only on-screen collaboration was in Malcolm X, both have individually starred in Lee’s iconic projects like Da 5 Bloods, Crooklyn, and Mo’ Better Blues.
During the panel, Washington playfully shared two life lessons he learned from Lindo in their youth: First, survival could be as simple as a loaf of wheat bread, a jar of honey, and peanut butter. Second, acting requires both passion and analysis. Washington recalled a pivotal moment in school when Lindo’s performance left him in awe. “I thought I was good,” Washington admitted, “but then I saw Delroy, and I realized I had to work harder.” He praised Lindo’s purity, discipline, and unfiltered honesty, qualities he believes define Lindo’s acting genius.
Lindo reciprocated with a story from their early days in San Francisco, where they dreamed of success without competition. “There should be space for all of us,” Lindo recalled saying to Washington. This ethos, he explained, has allowed him to genuinely admire Washington’s extraordinary career. Here’s the controversial part: in an industry that often pits artists against each other, their friendship challenges the narrative that success must come at someone else’s expense.
Lindo also shared a turning point in his career when Washington’s encouragement kept him from quitting. During a low moment in New York, Washington told him, “Dee, don’t leave. You’re too good. This will turn around for you.” Lindo credited this pep talk as the linchpin that kept him in the game. Thought-provoking question: How many careers have been saved by a single act of kindness? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Both actors now share a new bond through Ryan Coogler, whose collaborative spirit has brought them into projects like Black Panther 3. Washington described Coogler as “shy and sweet,” while Lindo called him “endearing” and praised his ability to stay grounded despite his success. But here’s a counterpoint: Is Coogler’s success due to his personality, or is it his talent that allows him to maintain it? Share your thoughts below.
In Sinners, Lindo plays Delta Slim, a Blues musician grappling with alcoholism and the oppressive Jim Crow South. Washington asked Lindo what drew him to the role, and Lindo revealed it was Coogler’s use of the horror genre to tell a larger story. Controversial interpretation: While the film has horrific elements, Lindo argues it’s not a horror film but a profound commentary on systemic injustice. What do you think?
One of the film’s most heartfelt scenes, where Delta Slim sings in the car to honor his fallen friends, was partially improvised. Lindo fought to keep this scene, believing it was crucial to understanding his character’s pain. And this is the part most people miss: collaboration isn’t just about working together—it’s about advocating for what matters. Lindo’s persistence highlights the importance of artists standing their ground.
As the conversation wrapped up, both actors emphasized the value of perseverance. “Creatives, no matter what’s happening, hang in there,” Lindo urged. Washington added, “If the devil leaves you alone, you’re doing something wrong.” Final thought-provoking question: In an industry that often feels like a battleground, is resilience the ultimate superpower? Let us know your take in the comments.
