The 47-year-old Washington, a sentimental favorite, was asked if the history-making awards highlighted Hollywood's persistent racial prejudice. He said he thought of singer/songwriter Randy Newman, who finally won an Oscar for original music score Sunday after 15 nominations.
"Sixteen times," Washington said. "What would he say on his 15th time when he lost, was that racism?"
"There's been a lot of talk about race ... this is an award to an actor," he added.
