Denzel Washington follows in Jack Lemmon’s footsteps when it comes to the Oscars
- Share via
Denzel Washington, Oscar-nominated for the title role in “Roman J. Israel, Esq.,” has an Academy Awards profile that parallels Jack Lemmon’s in many ways. Here’s a by-the-numbers rundown:
2, 8 – Number of Oscars and nominations, respectively, that Washington, 63 — up for lead actor this year — has picked up so far. Lemmon, who died at age 76 in 2001, won two Oscars from eight nominations in his lifetime.
WATCH: Video Q&A’s from this season’s hottest contenders »
30s – Age range when they won their first Oscars for supporting roles as military men. Lemmon, then 31, won in 1956 for his performance as a World War II ensign in “Mister Roberts.” Washington was 35 when he won in 1990 for his portrayal of a Civil War soldier in “Glory.”
49, 47 – Lemmon’s and Washington’s ages, respectively, when each won a lead Oscar in a star vehicle (1973’s “Save the Tiger” for Lemmon, 2001’s “Training Day” for Washington) that would be remembered mainly for his performance.
5 – Each was on his fifth nomination when he won his lead Oscar.
Sign up for The Envelope
Get exclusive awards season news, in-depth interviews and columnist Glenn Whipp’s must-read analysis straight to your inbox.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
