“Othello” Breaks Broadway Records with Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal

In an unprecedented achievement, the recent production of “Othello” has set a new record for Broadway plays, grossing an impressive $2.8 million within a single week. This remarkable milestone showcases the star power of acclaimed actors Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal, who bring Shakespeare’s tragic tale to life on stage.

Denzel Washington’s Enthusiasm for “Othello”

Denzel Washington, who plays the titular role of Othello, expressed his excitement about the production, stating, “It’s the most excited I’ve been this century. Seriously. I haven’t been this excited about anything I’ve done as I am about this.”

Washington, renowned for his performances in iconic films such as “Glory” and “Training Day,” often labeled as one of the greatest actors of the 21st century, clarified his identity in the entertainment industry. “What’s the definition of a Hollywood actor? Myself, I’m from Mt. Vernon, so I’m a ‘Mt. Vernon actor.’ I don’t know what ‘Hollywood’ means,” he remarked.

The Importance of Theater for Washington

Further emphasizing his roots, Washington stated, “I’m a stage actor who does film; it’s not the other way around,” highlighting that he honed his craft in theater before transitioning to film. He explained, “Theater is an actor’s medium. The curtain goes up, nobody can help you.”

Modern Themes in a Classic Tale

This production of “Othello” marks Washington’s sixth appearance on Broadway. In this iteration of the classic play, set in the “near future,” contemporary themes such as the struggles of service members with PTSD are explored. Washington elaborated on the narrative, stating, “People, you know, they ordinarily think, ‘Oh yeah, it’s about jealousy. And he betrays him.’ No, it’s about two soldiers who trust each other with their lives.”

Jake Gyllenhaal’s Dynamic Role as Iago

Co-starring with Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal portrays Iago, the ensign who manipulates Othello into a fit of jealousy. Gyllenhaal remarked on the unique relationship shared by the characters, saying, “What is shared is theirs, you know? And what is shared beyond something that they would share with others. That’s what makes their bond so strong.”

The Legacy of “Othello” on Broadway

While Shakespeare originally penned “Othello” around 1604, this production aims to resonate with modern audiences while retaining the integrity of the original text. Notably, Washington’s last portrayal of Othello was years ago while he was still a student at Fordham University. “I know a lot less now. I thought I knew everything then!” he reflected on the changes in his understanding of the character.

Record-Breaking Box Office Success

The production’s box office success has led to ticket prices rising dramatically, with prime seats nearing $1,000. Despite some criticism regarding the cost, audiences have turned out in droves to witness the electrifying performances, creating an unforgettable theater experience. Gyllenhaal acknowledged the magnitude of this moment in their careers, saying, “You get to a point where you’re like, ‘Oh, I’ve worked my whole career for this, for this moment.'” Washington echoed this sentiment, noting that his journey as an actor has prepared him for this pinnacle in his career.

Conclusion

As “Othello” continues to captivate theatergoers, both actors express deep gratitude for their time on stage, with Gyllenhaal stating, “I feel tremendous gratitude.” With its blend of classic literary themes and modern relevance, this production of “Othello” represents not just a major achievement for its cast but also a significant moment in Broadway history.

For further insights, you can watch the extended interview with Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal discussing their roles in “Othello.”