Washington and Gyllenhaal break Broadway records with Othello

In March 2025, Broadway witnessed a record-breaking revival of Shakespeare's Othello, featuring Hollywood stars Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. The production set a new high for ticket prices, generating $2.8 million in a single week, making it the highest-grossing Broadway play ever. Directed by Tony Award winner Kenny Leon, Othello's narrative centers on jealousy and betrayal within a modernized context. Despite its impressive ticket sales, the show faced mixed reviews from critics, many of whom expressed concern over the effectiveness of its contemporary adaptation. The casting of Denzel Washington, age 70, as the title character, opposite 27-year-old Molly Osborne as Desdemona, created a dynamic that drew critical scrutiny. Critics highlighted the lack of sexual chemistry between the two, attributing this to the significant age difference, which shifted Othello and Desdemona's relationship from romantic to paternalistic in tone. In addition, the decision to set the play in the 'near future' elicited varied opinions, with some reviewers arguing this modern twist diluted the emotional impact of the original material. Washington, a veteran in both stage and film, expressed his connection to the character Othello, suggesting that he brings lifetime experience to the role, and emphasized the unique relationship actors have with their audience during performances. Gyllenhaal, who acknowledged that he had spent considerable time preparing for the role of Iago, noted the significance of this moment in his career. He believed both stars had aimed to create a fresh interpretation of a classic play, even as concerns about its execution mounted in the critics’ circles. Despite the commercial success of Othello, the mixed critical reception raised questions about the balance between star power and substance in theatrical productions, particularly when adapting classic texts. Audience reactions have remained varied, with some praising Washington and Gyllenhaal's performances while others felt that the modernization detracted from the core themes of Shakespeare's work. The 15-week run of the production at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre will continue to draw attention as it navigates these critical perspectives and the expectations of an audience captivated by its lead actors.