At the Toronto premiere of The Last Piano, Denzel Washington took a moment from the red carpet to give eight-year-old “Liam the Kid Reporter” some wise and viral advice. When the young fan asked, “How can I be a Canadian gangster like you?” Denzel was quick to steer him in a different direction. “You’re too smart to be a gangster,” he replied, then pivoted, asking about his favorite subject. When Liam shared he wanted to be a doctor, Denzel encouraged him, saying, “It’s better to be a doctor than a gangster. Never want to be a gangster.”
The exchange captured hearts online, though some fans playfully critiqued Denzel’s assumption that the Asian-Canadian boy’s favorite subjects might be “math or science.” Despite the playful jabs, fans agreed that Denzel’s advice is a memorable lesson the young reporter won’t forget anytime soon.
The night was special for the Washington family, too, as Denzel supported his sons at the premiere—Malcolm as the film’s director and John David as a star. The entire family made a rare appearance together, celebrating Denzel and Pauletta’s 40th wedding anniversary with the same grace and style that has made Washington an enduring legend.
