Graduated from Willowridge High School (1981, Houston, Texas)

After leaving Howard University (Theater Arts major), he became an original member of the City Kids Repertory, a theater company that performed in schools in effort to bring relevant productions to high-risk kids.

His mother was the first African American woman to be licensed as a barber in the state of Texas.

Took a DNA test to determine his heritage. The results concluded that his father's side is Angolan and his mother's side is from Sierra Leone.

Following a confrontation with fellow cast member Patrick Dempsey on the set of "Grey's Anatomy" (2005), it was reported that the altercation was related to Washington's use of the epithet "fag..." towards their co-star T.R. Knight. In response to press queries about the incident, he denied that accusation in the backstage area at the 2007 Golden Globe Awards. However, Knight and other cast members later stated that he did use the word (January 2007).

Was in the Air Force prior to acting. His dream was to be the second "General Washington"

At one time in his life he wanted to be a professional football player.

Has two sons Isaiah, Tyme and one daughter, Iman.