In a candid interview with Esquire, Denzel Washington opened up about his tumultuous past with drugs and alcohol, revealing how it has taken a toll on his health. The iconic actor, known for his roles in films like “Training Day” and the upcoming “Gladiator II,” is preparing to celebrate a major milestone—ten years of sobriety—on his upcoming 70th birthday in December.

"I’ve done a lot of damage to my body," Washington admitted. "We’ll see. I’ve been clean." He reflected on the significance of reaching this age, saying, "Things are opening up for me now—like being seventy. It’s real. And it’s OK. This is the last chapter—if I get another thirty, what do I want to do?"

Throughout the years, Washington has experimented with various substances but noted that wine became his main focus. He explained, “Wine is very tricky. It’s very slow. It ain’t like, boom, all of a sudden.” Washington clarified that while he experimented with drugs like heroin and cocaine, he never became addicted. His description of his drinking habit revealed a progressive shift towards high-end wines, particularly when a wine cellar was introduced into his home.

“I learned to drink the best," he shared. "So I’m gonna drink my ‘61s and my ‘82s and whatever we had. Wine was my thing, and now I was popping $4,000 bottles just because that’s what was left.” Washington frequently ordered his wine from a local high-end shop, limiting himself to two bottles each time to control his consumption. “Because if I order more, I’ll drink more,” he explained. “So I kept it to two bottles, and I would drink them both over the course of the day.”

Despite his struggles, Washington maintained a strong work ethic, asserting, “I never drank while I was working or preparing. I would clean up, go back to work—I could do both.” After completing filming, he would indulge in wine for several months before returning to a focused work schedule.

As he approaches this new decade, Washington's reflections underscore not only his battles but also his growth and resilience. With his mother living to the impressive age of 97, he is determined to make the most of his future: “I’m doing the best I can.”

As fans celebrate this beloved actor's legacy, they also look forward to his continued journey of health and sobriety—and the inspiration he provides to many facing similar challenges.