Denzel Washington was 23 years old when he made his film debut in the 1977 made-for-television movie, Wilma. While it wasn’t a starring role, this marked the beginning of a career that would solidify him as one of the most respected and accomplished actors in Hollywood history.
Early Beginnings: A Stepping Stone to Stardom
Denzel Washington’s journey to becoming a two-time Academy Award winner and a household name didn’t happen overnight. Wilma, a biopic about the legendary track and field star Wilma Rudolph, served as an invaluable early experience.
The Role of Robert Eldridge
In Wilma, Washington played the character of Robert Eldridge, one of Rudolph’s friends. While not a central figure in the narrative, the role provided him with his first taste of professional filmmaking. It offered him the opportunity to observe experienced actors, learn the intricacies of film production, and begin honing his craft on a real set. This exposure, although limited, was crucial for a young aspiring actor navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry. It’s worth noting that his performance, though nascent, hinted at the charisma and dedication that would become hallmarks of his later work.
Wilma (1977): More Than Just a Starting Point
While Wilma is often mentioned as Denzel Washington’s first film role, it’s essential to understand the context of its production and its significance in the broader landscape of 1970s television.
A Television Event
Made-for-TV movies were a popular form of entertainment during the 1970s, offering a platform for telling compelling stories and reaching a wide audience. Wilma was a significant event in its own right, celebrating the achievements of an iconic athlete and highlighting themes of perseverance and overcoming adversity. Being involved in such a project, even in a minor role, gave Washington valuable exposure to a large audience and allowed him to associate himself with a positive and uplifting narrative. The film’s success further bolstered his resume and opened doors for future opportunities.
From Television to Film: The Path to Recognition
Following Wilma, Washington continued to work diligently, taking on roles in television series and theater productions. This dedication and commitment to his craft eventually led to more prominent roles in feature films.
Breaking Through
While Wilma marked his debut, it was his role in Carbon Copy (1981) that is often credited as his first major film appearance. However, the momentum continued to build, leading to critically acclaimed performances in movies like A Soldier’s Story (1984) and his breakout role in the television series St. Elsewhere. These early successes showcased his versatility and talent, laying the foundation for his eventual rise to superstardom. His perseverance in taking on various roles, both small and large, demonstrates his dedication to learning and perfecting his craft.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Denzel Washington’s Early Career
Here are some common questions regarding Denzel Washington’s early career and his first film role, Wilma.
1. What was Denzel Washington doing before Wilma?
Before Wilma, Washington was primarily focused on his theatrical training. He attended Fordham University, where he initially studied pre-med before discovering his passion for acting. He participated in various student productions and honed his skills through workshops and acting classes.
2. Was Wilma Denzel Washington’s only role in 1977?
While Wilma is typically cited as his only screen credit for 1977, it’s possible he had minor, uncredited roles in other productions. Information on such roles from that early in his career can be difficult to verify definitively.
3. How can I watch Wilma today?
Finding Wilma can be challenging, as it’s not readily available on streaming platforms. Check for physical copies (DVDs) through online retailers or libraries. You might also find clips or full episodes on YouTube or other video-sharing websites, although their legality and quality may vary.
4. Did Denzel Washington receive any credit for his role in Wilma?
Yes, Denzel Washington is credited for his role as Robert Eldridge in Wilma. His name appears in the film’s credits, confirming his participation in the production.
5. What other actors were in Wilma?
Wilma starred Shirley Jo Finney as Wilma Rudolph. Other notable actors in the film included Cicely Tyson, Roscoe Lee Browne, and Norman Alden.
6. Did Denzel Washington ever discuss his experience working on Wilma?
While Denzel Washington hasn’t extensively discussed his experiences on Wilma in interviews, it is likely he views it as a valuable learning opportunity and a crucial stepping stone in his career. He often emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and continuous learning, principles that he undoubtedly applied during his early roles.
7. How did Denzel Washington get the role in Wilma?
The exact details of the casting process for Wilma are not readily available. However, it’s likely that Washington secured the role through auditions, showcasing his acting abilities and potential to the casting directors.
8. What impact did Wilma have on Denzel Washington’s career trajectory?
While Wilma wasn’t a breakthrough role, it provided Washington with valuable on-set experience, exposure to the film industry, and a credit to add to his resume. It helped him transition from theater productions to screen acting and opened doors to future opportunities.
9. Is Wilma considered a good movie?
Wilma is generally considered a well-made and inspiring biopic. It effectively portrays the life story of Wilma Rudolph, highlighting her determination and resilience in overcoming physical challenges to become an Olympic champion.
10. What other early roles did Denzel Washington have after Wilma?
Following Wilma, Denzel Washington appeared in several television series and movies, including Flesh & Blood, Carbon Copy, and License to Kill. He also continued to work extensively in theater, honing his skills and expanding his repertoire.
11. Did Denzel Washington have any formal acting training?
Yes, Denzel Washington received formal acting training at Fordham University, where he initially studied pre-med before switching his major to drama. He further honed his skills at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco.
12. How did Denzel Washington transition from television to becoming a major movie star?
Denzel Washington’s transition from television to becoming a major movie star was a gradual process, built on years of hard work, dedication, and consistently delivering outstanding performances. His roles in television series like St. Elsewhere gained him widespread recognition, while his performances in films like A Soldier’s Story and Cry Freedom established him as a talented and versatile actor. He carefully chose roles that showcased his range and challenged him as an actor, eventually leading to his breakthrough performances in movies like Glory and Malcolm X.