‘Be Great—That’s It’: Gyllenhaal Reveals What He Learned Watching Washington Work

The stage of Broadway has witnessed many iconic pairings, but the collaboration between Jake Gyllenhaal and Denzel Washington in the revival of Othello, which premiered on March 23, 2025, at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, stands out for its remarkable depth, both in performance and mutual respect. Directed by Kenny Leon, the production marks Washington’s return to the stage after his 2018 performance in The Iceman Cometh and Gyllenhaal’s continued presence in Broadway following his role in Sunday in the Park with George. This revival has shattered box office records, grossing a staggering $2.8 million in a single week of previews, making it the highest-grossing non-musical Broadway play ever.

Washington plays the titular Othello, the noble Moor of Venice, while Gyllenhaal takes on the role of Iago, Othello’s ambitious and manipulative lieutenant. This pairing of two celebrated actors—Washington with his two Academy Awards and Tony Award, and Gyllenhaal with his varied and acclaimed career—has drawn significant attention and sparked conversations about their dynamic, both on and off stage.

Gyllenhaal’s Deep Admiration for Washington

In interviews leading up to the opening, Gyllenhaal has been effusive in his admiration for Washington’s acting prowess. In a February 2025 interview with Vogue, Gyllenhaal described Washington as “one of the greatest actors ever,” highlighting the profound respect he holds for his co-star. Gyllenhaal, no stranger to critically acclaimed roles himself, reflected on the ease with which Washington delivers his lines, noting, “He can say his lines like, you know, like they’re just coming out of his mouth.” For Gyllenhaal, this effortless command over dialogue is a skill he aspires to emulate, even admitting that he often finds himself asking, “How do I do that?”

Gyllenhaal’s comments underscore the depth of Washington’s craft, revealing the nuanced complexity behind what might appear as simple stage delivery. “I keep watching him, thinking, how do I do that?” Gyllenhaal said, acknowledging the subtlety and artistry in Washington’s work that allows for such a natural, seemingly effortless portrayal. This insight reveals Gyllenhaal’s introspective approach to his own craft, as he continues to strive for excellence while learning from a true master of the stage.

Gratitude and Collaboration

Beyond admiration for Washington’s skill, Gyllenhaal speaks of the emotional and professional impact their collaboration has had. In a March 2025 interview with CBS News, Gyllenhaal reflected on the inspiration he draws from Washington, saying, “I feel tremendous gratitude. And he makes me feel it when I walk in that rehearsal room every day.” This sense of gratitude speaks to the positive, supportive atmosphere on set, which has no doubt contributed to the production’s success. Gyllenhaal’s remarks suggest that Washington’s leadership and presence have created a nurturing environment that fosters growth, not just for the performance, but for Gyllenhaal as an actor.

Their lighthearted rapport is also evident, with Gyllenhaal humorously responding to Washington’s teasing, saying, “Look at you, ready for opening night…you’re Iago-ing me already.” This playful exchange highlights the comfortable and respectful dynamic between the two, showing that their collaboration is built not only on admiration but also on a strong friendship and mutual respect.

The Production: A Powerful Dynamic on Stage

The Othello production itself has generated significant buzz, with critics noting the fascinating interplay between the performances of Washington and Gyllenhaal. In a New York Times review, the contrast between the two actors’ performances was particularly highlighted, with Gyllenhaal’s Iago described as “more legible” than Washington’s Othello, suggesting a dynamic that allowed each actor to shine in their respective roles. Meanwhile, The Guardian acknowledged the star power of both Washington and Gyllenhaal, even if the production itself was deemed “underwhelming” by some.

Despite mixed critical responses, the box office success is undeniable. With Othello breaking records and generating $2.8 million in a week of previews, this production not only signifies a successful commercial venture but also highlights the power of star talent in drawing audiences to the theatre. This massive box office figure reflects the immense anticipation surrounding the play, underscoring the draw of the partnership between Washington and Gyllenhaal.

A Legacy of Broadway Excellence

Washington’s return to the stage with Othello marks another significant chapter in his illustrious career, which includes his Tony-winning performance in Fences and previous Broadway roles in A Raisin in the Sun. For Gyllenhaal, Othello marks a continued commitment to the stage following his Broadway debut in Sunday in the Park with George. However, it is clear from Gyllenhaal’s comments that he views this collaboration with Washington as something truly unique.

The dynamic between Washington and Gyllenhaal is enhanced by their long-standing professional rapport and mutual respect for one another’s talents. Both actors bring a wealth of experience to the production, with Washington offering seasoned insight into stagecraft and Gyllenhaal contributing his own creative energy and enthusiasm. Their chemistry on stage has been a driving force behind the play’s success, providing a captivating experience for both critics and audiences alike.

Conclusion: A Collaborative Masterpiece

As Othello continues to break records on Broadway, the partnership between Jake Gyllenhaal and Denzel Washington stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual respect in the world of theatre. Gyllenhaal’s admiration for Washington and the camaraderie between the two actors has fostered an environment where both can thrive, delivering memorable performances that have captured the attention of both audiences and critics. As the production continues to run, it’s clear that the bond between these two stars is one of the key reasons why this revival of Othello is such a remarkable success—both on stage and at the box office.