Denzel Washington: Why He Calls Himself a Theater Actor First

Washington [US], March 24 (ANI): The Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington is presently appearing in a fresh Broadway production of Shakespeare's 'Othello', co-starring with Jake Gyllenhaal.

In a recent interview with People magazine, Washington discussed his perspective on his acting career and emphasized that he views himself as a theater actor primarily.

When questioned about serving as a " Hollywood Actor, Washington replied, "Could you tell me what the definition of a" Hollywood Actor? As for me, I hail from Mount Vernon, which makes me a 'Mount Vernon actor.' I’m not sure about the rest. Hollywood ' means."

Washington, an Oscar winner for his performances in movies such as 'Glory' and 'Training Day,' stressed that acting on stage remains his true passion.

“I am primarily a theater actor who also works in film; it doesn’t work the other way,” he clarified, further stating, “I started with theater. That’s where I mastered my craft, not through filmmaking.”

The actor playing the lead part in 'Othello' remarked that theater is primarily an actor's domain, while cinema belongs more to directors and filmmakers.

"As the curtain rises, no one can assist you," he stated, as reported by People magazine.

Washington's staging of 'Othello' is a long-held aspiration for the actor, who has consistently looked up to the legendary performance of the late James Earl Jones as Othello.

James Earl Jones served as my guiding light during my college years," Washington stated, additionally saying, "He was the person I aspired to become.

Collaborating with Gyllenhaal and director Kenny Leon during the production has been an exhilarating experience for Washington.

"Now I understand much less," he admitted when thinking about his previous understanding of the part.

"He mentioned that back then, he believed himself to be all-knowing. However, he genuinely disliked that section because he lacked the wisdom to comprehend it at the time," he explained.

The short-lived 15-week run of 'Othello' is presently underway at Broadway's Barrymore Theatre. (ANI)

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).