Colman Domingo is currently experiencing another awards season buzz and he recalled some valuable advice from Denzel Washington while addressing rumors about possibly replacing Jonathan Majors as Kang in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Domingo is nominated for Best Actor Oscars for Rustin and Sing Sing in back-to-back years a feat last achieved by Washington himself.
In a recent interview featured in PEOPLE's 2025 Oscar Portfolio Domingo shared the wisdom Washington offered him during the production of Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom in 2020. Domingo remembers Washington saying “You know Colman. A lot of times for a long time you think it's about the awards. Then you start winning all the awards. And you'll realize at some point it's not about the awards it's about the reward.”
Domingo elaborated on Washington's point explaining “The acknowledgement the awards are great stuff but it's the reward of doing good work and making good work happen and figuring that out for yourself." He believes Washington recognized his trajectory and wanted to emphasize the true essence of the work beyond accolades. Domingo acknowledges the wonderful feeling of recognition and awards which fuels his passion but reaffirms that the core is the reward of creation itself.
Adding to his perspective Domingo mentioned his preference for staying engaged in new projects amidst awards season. He said “That's why I always love that I have some work in between during this award season because it helps remind me what it's really about. It's about creating more work and creating more work for others and a new platform so that's where you find the joy and it's the truth. So that’s a great pearl from Denzel.”
Separately Domingo addressed speculation about him potentially replacing Jonathan Majors as Kang the Conqueror in the MCU. In a conversation on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast Domingo clarified that while there were discussions with Marvel they were not about replacing Kang. Domingo stated that he had a meeting with Marvel executives to discuss the rumors after online speculation grew. He contacted his team to verify the conversations and confirmed initial contact about him joining Marvel in some capacity.
However regarding the Kang role Domingo expressed hesitation about replacing another actor. He told Josh Horowitz “I want a role to be mine whatever that role is whatever I develop. Something didn’t feel right of me like ‘Oh would I replace someone?’ No I want to build something from the ground up that’s my own.” He emphasized his desire to create a character from scratch aligning with his artistic values. Domingo did not confirm if he was ever actually considered for Kang but reiterated his openness to collaborating with Marvel on a suitable project.
What Colman Domingo's Statements Mean For His MCU Future
Domingo Is Interested In Joining MCU But On His Own Terms
Colman Domingo's comments reveal his thoughtful approach to both awards season and potential roles. Denzel Washington’s advice underscores the intrinsic reward of meaningful work a sentiment Domingo clearly embraces. His handling of the Kang rumors highlights his artistic integrity and preference for originality overstepping into an existing role. While he is in talks with Marvel his focus is on building a unique character rather than replacing Kang. This suggests that if Domingo joins the MCU it will likely be in a role specifically crafted for him.
Marvel ultimately decided to pivot away from Kang after Jonathan Majors' legal issues and shifted focus to Doctor Doom. While some fans considered Domingo a potential Kang replacement his own statements and Marvel's direction indicate this is unlikely. However Domingo's willingness to collaborate with Marvel leaves the door open for future roles. His established acting talent and interest in original character development could make him a valuable addition to the MCU in a different capacity.
Our Take On Colman Domingo And MCU Rumors
Marvel And Domingo Could Collaborate On A New Character
Colman Domingo navigating awards season and MCU rumors reveals a grounded artist prioritizing meaningful creation. His reception of Denzel Washington's wisdom shows his appreciation for the deeper aspects of his craft beyond accolades. His stance on the Kang rumors is assertive reflecting a desire for authentic artistic contribution. Instead of stepping into a pre-defined role Domingo seeks to originate a character a sentiment that resonates with many fans who believe his talent deserves a role built specifically for him.
Given Domingo's expressed interest in joining the MCU and Marvel's ongoing expansion a collaboration on a new character seems plausible. This approach would align with Domingo's artistic vision and offer Marvel the opportunity to introduce a fresh compelling character to their universe. Fans can anticipate seeing Colman Domingo in a Marvel project but likely in a role that allows him to bring his unique talents to a character created from the ground up rather than a recast.
Sources: PEOPLE.com variety.com deadline.com gamingbible.com