Academy Award winner Denzel Washington continues to inspire, evolving his work and sharing the spotlight with the next generation.

His latest role in Gladiator II reunites him with renowned director Ridley Scott.

"The reason I was there was the filmmaker," said Washington of what pushed him creatively. "The opportunity to work with Ridley again. We had a great collaboration on American Gangster."

Denzel Washington is Macrinus in Gladiator II. (Courtesy: Paramount "Gladiator II")

The veteran actor also said of Scott: "He's a master at his craft, and I think one of the best filmmakers alive. And when he called, I answered."

Washington's character in Gladiator II, Macrinus, believes he was destined for something great. 

"I was never destined to be an actor," Washington said in contrast to his character's view. "I guess it chose me. I never imagined that I would be where I am now. I think acting is a platform for what I was really put on this earth to do."

Beyond acting, Washington is passionate about his family and in the stories he chooses to bring to life.

His role as a producer of August Wilson's plays is just one example.

"I've been blessed beyond measure with a God-given ability," he said, "but most importantly, with a magnificent wife who raised our four children when I was out running around the world making movies."

Denzel Washington stars with Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, and Paul Mescal in Gladiator II. (Courtesy: Paramount "Gladiator II")

"She taught them how to love and how to be disciplined and how to work," the actor added. "We’re both artists. She’s a child prodigy, a concert pianist, and I’m an actor. So they have talent."

A new generation of actors, including his Gladiator II costars, continues to learn from Washington's legacy.

"I try to continue to grow as an actor," he said. "In fact, when we were shooting, I brought up Othello, and one of the actors told me I’m absolutely the right age. So I’m actually going to do Othello on Broadway in the spring."

Gladiator II arrives in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22 and in the Philippines on Dec. 4.