Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal are set to showcase their acting prowess on Broadway in a production of William Shakespeare's Othello. The announcement was made by producer Brian Anthony Moreland, revealing that Washington, a two-time Oscar winner, will take on the role of Othello, while Gyllenhaal, an Oscar nominee, will portray Iago.
The highly anticipated show, directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, is scheduled to debut in spring 2025 at a Shubert Theatre, with the specific venue yet to be disclosed. Gyllenhaal expressed his excitement for the project on Instagram, stating, 'Can't wait.'
Washington, known for his impressive Shakespearean performances, received critical acclaim for his portrayal in the 2021 film The Tragedy of Macbeth. His previous Shakespearean roles include appearances in Much Ado About Nothing, Julius Caesar, Coriolanus, and Richard III.
In a recent interview with IndieWire, Washington emphasized his deep admiration for Shakespeare, referring to the playwright's works as the ultimate challenge for an actor. He highlighted the rigorous standards set by Shakespeare, stating, 'If you can't deliver, you will get exposed. And I love that: No pain, no gain.'
Washington further elaborated on his passion for Shakespeare in an interview with ABC7's On the Red Carpet, describing Shakespeare as 'the gift that keeps on giving.' He emphasized the need for actors to rise to Shakespeare's level rather than attempting to simplify his works, stating, 'It's a standard that your ordinary chops ain't enough to get you over.'
The upcoming Broadway production of Othello featuring Washington and Gyllenhaal promises to be a captivating theatrical experience, combining the talents of two esteemed actors in a classic Shakespearean tragedy.
