Denzel Washington has played kings, cops, and crusaders, but his most surprising role might be as a music plug for his wife, Pauletta.
At the Los Angeles premiere of Highest 2 Lowest, the Oscar winner revealed to REVOLT that his wide-ranging taste in music isn’t just for him — it’s how Pauletta ended up becoming a Cardi B fan.
Washington explained that his connection to music has always been personal, which made it easy to embody David King, the powerful music mogul he plays in Highest 2 Lowest.
“How could I not? By playing it… just playing music!” he said. The character, known for having “the best ear in the business,” mirrors Washington’s own eclectic listening habits — shifting seamlessly from Andrea Bocelli’s “Ave Maria” to hip hop’s chart-toppers.
That range also shapes what gets played at home. Pauletta joined in on the conversation to give her husband credit for widening her playlist. “He introduces me to a lot. You introduced me to Cardi B,” she said, sparking a smile from Washington, who replied, “Oh, Cardi, yeah.”
The moment revealed a different side of Washington — not just the actor trusted by Spike Lee for decades, but also the husband whose ear for music influences those closest to him. Pauletta’s admission highlights just how much Denzel’s appreciation for sound extends beyond his roles and into his personal life, including his marriage.
The influence of music doesn’t just stay in their household — it’s central to the storytelling in Highest 2 Lowest.
Washington’s character navigates a world where sound determines power, careers, and legacy. His eclectic ear made stepping into the role seamless, as he blended personal taste with professional performance. “I love music,” he emphasized, again, pointing out that it was the foundation for how he built King’s authority on screen.
