Denzel Washington, the celebrated actor known for his powerful film roles, recently shared his unique perspective on acting during an interview on CBS News’ Sunday Morning. Speaking on March 23, 2025, at 10:11 PM EDT (which is 7:41 AM IST on March 24, 2025), Washington explained why he identifies first and foremost as a stage actor rather than a “Hollywood” actor. His comments come ahead of the new Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s Othello, in which he stars in the title role alongside Jake Gyllenhaal as the villainous Iago.
The discussion centered on Washington’s long-held passion for theater and the lessons he learned on stage before transitioning to film. In his own words, the actor referred to himself as a “Mt. Vernon actor,” a nod to his roots in New York, which underlines his belief that genuine acting skills are honed in the live environment of theater rather than through film. This clear distinction between stage and film acting has sparked interest among audiences and critics alike, as Washington explains the true essence of his craft.
Denzel Actor Background
Denzel Washington has long been admired for his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters. With an illustrious career that includes Oscar-winning roles in films like Glory (1989) and Training Day (2001), Washington’s success in movies is well documented. However, during his recent interview, he made it clear that his roots lie in theater. He stated that his initial training came from the stage, where the immediacy of live performance forces an actor to rely solely on their skills. According to Washington, theater is an actor’s medium because every performance is a live event where there are no second takes.
Broadway Revival Details
The new production of Othello marks a significant moment for Broadway. It is the first time in more than 40 years that the play has graced the Broadway stage. The revival, which opened on March 23, 2025, features Washington in the title role and Jake Gyllenhaal portraying Iago, the play’s scheming antagonist. The production is set for a limited 15-week engagement and is playing at Broadway’s Barrymore Theatre until Sunday, June 8, 2025. While local show times are in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), audiences in India can note that performance timings will align with Indian Standard Time (IST), ensuring fans around the globe can plan their visit.
The revival brings together a team that is committed to presenting a fresh take on this timeless tragedy. Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon helms the production, ensuring that every detail of Shakespeare’s classic is given the thoughtful direction it deserves.
Production Team Overview
The production of Othello is the result of a strong collaborative effort. Lead producer Brian Anthony Moreland worked alongside a group of co-producers, including Kandi Burruss and her husband Todd Tucker. Their involvement underscores a blend of seasoned theater experience and fresh perspectives from different entertainment sectors. The diverse team behind the production has worked diligently to bring a high-quality performance to Broadway, making the revival a must-see event for theater enthusiasts.
The production team has ensured that the show stays true to the spirit of Shakespeare’s original play while also providing modern touches that resonate with today’s audiences. The cast, production crew, and creative team have all come together with a shared vision of delivering an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Performance Schedule Details
Othello’s Broadway run is drawing considerable attention due to its historic significance and the star power of its cast. The production is set to run until Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Barrymore Theatre. This run offers a limited window for theater lovers to experience the revival in person. For international audiences, it is important to note that while local timings are in EDT, the equivalent times in India are in IST, ensuring that fans around the world have accurate scheduling details.
The limited engagement underscores the special nature of the production, encouraging fans to secure their tickets early. With the combination of Washington’s celebrated stage presence and Gyllenhaal’s intriguing portrayal of Iago, the revival promises to be a landmark event in contemporary theater.
Actor Reflection Insights
During his conversation, Washington reflected on how his early experiences on stage shaped his approach to acting. He compared the mediums of film and theater, stating that while movies allow for multiple takes and post-production magic, the theater demands a raw, unedited performance where every moment is live. This directness in theater means that an actor must be fully prepared and connected with the audience, a challenge that Washington embraces wholeheartedly.
Washington also mentioned that working with Jake Gyllenhaal has added a new dimension to his performance. The chemistry between the two actors has helped bring out the complexity of their characters in Othello. For Washington, this project is more than just another role—it is a personal milestone that highlights his dedication to the craft of acting.
The actor’s insights serve as a reminder of the unique qualities of live theater. His enthusiasm for the revival of Othello is evident, and his passion for the stage continues to inspire both new and veteran actors alike.
