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John David Washington Shares The Best Piece Of Advice His Father Denzel Washington Gave Him

The actor recently made his Broadway debut starring in August Wilson’s ‘The Piano Lesson.’

Actor John David Washington is revealing the greatest piece of acting advice his Oscar-winning father, Denzel Washington, has given him.

Appearing on a recent episode of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the 38-year-old shared the words of wisdom his dad gave him just before he made his Broadway debut in August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson. He is currently playing the lead role of Boy Willie opposite Samuel L. Jackson (Doaker Charles) and Danielle Brooks (Berniece).

“My father talks about owning his space and believing what you’re saying. My mother is the same way,” he said. “Just standing strong and not being afraid to stay still and deliver the lines at times and then don’t be afraid to move, turn and talk to your partner at times.”

“Finding your power spots on stage that feel the most comfortable and natural for the character to be in when delivering a certain part of the monologue or the conversation.”

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Earlier this year, Washington starred in the period comedy-thriller Amsterdam. He has starred in films, including Spike Lee’s 2018 film BlacKkKlansman, where he received a Golden Globe nomination, and Christopher Nolan’s 2020 action-thriller Tenet.

He also appeared in the Netflix film Malcolm & Marie opposite Zendaya and in the HBO series Ballers.

The Piano Lesson runs through Jan. 29, 2023, at the Ethel Barrymore Theater in New York City. You can purchase tickets here.

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