Katie Couric Reflects On Uncomfortable Interview With Denzel Washington

Let me tell you a story about a moment in journalism that didn’t quite go as planned. Former ABC journalist Katie Couric, the Emmy-nominated powerhouse we all know and love, recently opened up about her 2004 interview with the legendary Denzel Washington. On the “Everything Iconic with Danny Pellegrino” podcast, Katie, now 63, shared how that encounter left her feeling a bit uneasy. You see, Denzel, who was 65 at the time, interrupted her multiple times, making the conversation a bit tense. It all started when Katie asked if "Hollywood folks should stick to acting." Little did she know, this simple question would spark a reaction that would leave a lasting impression.

When Denzel Set the Record Straight

Now, let’s rewind to that pivotal moment. Denzel, while promoting his film The Manchurian Candidate on Dateline, was crystal clear about how he felt. He wasn’t having it when Katie brought up the notion of “Hollywood folks.” Denzel explained, “I don’t know what Hollywood folks are, first of all.” He went on to clarify, “Hollywood is a town that has some stars on the sidewalk. I don’t know anybody from there. So, I don’t — that’s like saying — calling you a ‘type’ of folks. I’m not a Hollywood folk. I don’t know who they are.” You can sense his frustration, right? It was palpable.

Katie tried her best to rephrase her question, but Denzel wasn’t having any of it. He cut her off with, “Ah, there you go. Am I one of those people? Hmmm, isn’t that interesting?” You can feel the tension building. Katie, of course, didn’t mean to come off as offensive. She tried to clarify, “Oh, stop, stop, stop,” but Denzel wasn’t about to let it slide.

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He Wasn’t Backing Down

“No, don’t stop. I heard what you just said. ‘Am I one of those people?’ No, I’m not,” Denzel replied firmly. Katie, the former ABC star, attempted to rephrase her question one last time. “No, are you an actor who would rather not —,” she said before Denzel interrupted her yet again.

“No, I’m not that either,” Denzel told the TV host. “I’m a human being. My job is acting.” You can imagine how this must have felt for Katie. It was a tough moment, and one she clearly hasn’t forgotten.