Denzel Washington Reflects On His Theater Roots, Says ‘I’m A Stage Actor Who Does Film’

March 24, 2025: Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington is currently starring in a Broadway revival of Shakespeare’s Othello, alongside Jake Gyllenhaal. In a recent interview, Washington opened up about his acting career and his deep connection to theatre, explaining why he considers himself a theatre actor first, despite his Hollywood success.

When asked about being labeled a “Hollywood actor,” Washington responded with a thoughtful reflection on his roots. “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 said, emphasizing that his identity as an actor goes beyond the confines of any particular film industry.

Though Washington has won Oscars for his performances in films like Glory and Training Day, he stressed that his foundation in acting was built on the stage. “I’m a stage actor who does film; it’s not the other way around,” he explained, noting that his journey as an actor began with live theatre. He pointed out that while film is a filmmaker’s medium, theatre remains an actor’s medium, where the performer is entirely responsible for the performance.

Currently starring in the title role of Othello, Washington said the role has been a personal dream come true. He reflected on his admiration for the legendary James Earl Jones, who portrayed Othello earlier in his career. “James Earl Jones was my northern star when I was in college,” Washington shared, noting that Jones was the actor he aspired to emulate.

Working with Jake Gyllenhaal and director Kenny Leon on this production has been a thrilling experience for Washington, who remarked that the role of Othello has evolved for him over time. “I know a lot less now,” he admitted, comparing his current understanding of the character with his earlier interpretation. He confessed that he initially didn’t fully appreciate the complexity of the role, stating, “I thought I knew everything then. I didn’t really like the part, ’cause I wasn’t wise enough to understand it.”

The limited 15-week engagement of Othello is currently running at Broadway’s Barrymore Theatre, offering audiences the rare opportunity to see Washington’s captivating performance in one of Shakespeare’s most iconic roles.