Happy birthday! Denzel Washington turns 71 today

By Lori Macatee
Washington
Last updated on December 28, 2025

The iconic and legendary actor turns 71 on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025.

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Denzel Washington is celebrating his 71st birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

Popular actor-director Denzel Washington (Training Day, Malcolm X, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 71st birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Washington, a cultural icon

Born Denzel Hayes Washington, Jr. in Mount Vernon on December 28, 1954, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Washington's not just a great actor, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Denzel hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Denzel Washington as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 71.

Happy Birthday, Denzel, you're the best!