Colman Domingo Reveals Valuable Career Advice From Denzel Washington

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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Denzel Washington's Emphasis on Preparation and Discipline

Denzel Washington's emphasis on preparation and discipline forms the bedrock of his advice to Colman Domingo. He stressed that true mastery comes not from innate talent alone, but from relentless dedication to the craft. Domingo recounted how Washington emphasized the meticulous preparation required for any role, big or small. This isn't just about memorizing lines; it's about a deep understanding of the character's motivations, their backstory, and their place within the larger narrative.

• Thorough script analysis: Washington encouraged Domingo to dissect the script, understanding every nuance, every subtext, and the overall arc of the story.
• Extensive rehearsal and practice: Rehearsal isn't just about getting the lines right; it's about exploring the character's emotional landscape and physicality. Domingo credits hours of rehearsal with solidifying his performances.
• Understanding character motivations: Understanding why a character acts the way they do is crucial. Washington pushed Domingo to delve deep into the psychological motivations driving his characters.
• Physical and emotional preparation: This includes everything from vocal exercises to physical training, to immersing oneself in the character's world. Domingo highlighted the transformative effect of this holistic approach.

The Importance of Professionalism and Respect

Beyond talent, Denzel Washington instilled in Colman Domingo the paramount importance of professionalism and respect. This isn't simply about adhering to industry etiquette; it's about fostering a positive and collaborative environment on set. Washington emphasized treating everyone with respect, regardless of their role—from the leading actors to the crew members working behind the scenes.

• Respecting colleagues and crew: Domingo underscored the importance of valuing every individual's contribution to the production. A positive attitude goes a long way in building strong working relationships.
• Maintaining a positive attitude: A positive outlook, even amidst challenges, is crucial for maintaining a productive and harmonious set environment.
• Punctuality and preparedness: Punctuality and being fully prepared demonstrate respect for the time and effort of everyone involved in the production.
• Networking effectively: Building strong professional relationships is essential for long-term success, but always with integrity and respect.

Finding Your Unique Voice and Authenticity

Denzel Washington’s advice wasn't solely about technical skills; it also focused on the importance of authenticity. He urged Colman Domingo to find and cultivate his unique artistic voice, to avoid imitation, and to stay true to himself. Washington stressed the danger of trying to emulate others, emphasizing the importance of originality and self-expression.

• Identifying personal strengths: Understanding your strengths as an actor—your unique talents and style—is crucial to developing a distinctive approach.
• Developing a unique acting style: This isn't about adopting a specific "method," but about finding your own way of portraying characters authentically.
• Embracing vulnerability: Authenticity often requires embracing vulnerability, allowing yourself to be seen and understood.
• Rejecting conformity: Don't try to fit into a mold; embrace your individuality and allow your unique personality to shine through your performances.

The Value of Mentorship and Giving Back

Denzel Washington’s guidance extended beyond personal career advice; he stressed the crucial role of mentorship and paying it forward. He underscored the importance of supporting aspiring actors and sharing one's knowledge and experience. This emphasis on building a supportive network echoes throughout Colman Domingo's own career.

• Supporting aspiring actors: Domingo actively mentors young actors, providing guidance and support based on the principles he learned from Washington.
• Sharing knowledge and experience: Sharing your hard-won insights is vital for fostering growth within the industry.
• Building a supportive network: Creating a strong network of colleagues, mentors, and collaborators is essential for sustained success.
• Creating opportunities for others: Domingo actively works to create opportunities for others, carrying forward the spirit of mentorship he received from Washington.

Conclusion

The career advice Denzel Washington shared with Colman Domingo offers invaluable lessons applicable far beyond the world of acting. Preparation, professionalism, authenticity, and mentorship are keys to success in any field. By embracing these principles—as exemplified by both these remarkable individuals—you can unlock your own potential and build a fulfilling and successful career. Learn from the wisdom of Denzel Washington and Colman Domingo, and unlock your own path to success. Discover more inspirational career advice by [linking to relevant content/other articles].