Denzel Washington Defends Broadway’s ‘Othello’ Ticket Prices
Denzel Washington is addressing the controversy surrounding the high ticket prices for his Broadway performance in “Othello,” and he isn’t apologizing for the cost.
When asked about reports of seats going “upwards of $900” during an interview with Entertainment Tonight at the Entertainment Community Fund Gala, the Oscar winner didn’t flinch. “But as low as $50,” Washington quickly replied. “People don’t talk about that,” he added, likely referencing the $49 student rush tickets available for the production.
The legendary actor stars as the title character in the Shakespearean tragedy, opposite Jake Gyllenhaal as Iago, at the Barrymore Theater.
The show raked in over $2.8 million during its first full week of previews, breaking Broadway records before being surpassed by George Clooney’s “Good Night, and Good Luck.”
When pressed on whether the ticket demand made him feel like a superstar on the level, Washington chuckled.
“I haven’t quite felt like that. I can’t sing or rap,” he quipped.
Still, Washington is taking the show’s success in stride. “I’ve been blessed beyond measure for a long time,” he told the outlet. “I’m not bragging, but I’ve been a part of sold-out shows before.”
Director Kenny Leon has also defended the production’s pricing, comparing it to the cost of a Lakers game or a musical concert. “People are paying what they think it’s worth,” Leon told the Daily Mail, adding that the show offers options like student tickets and daily digital lotteries to help ensure accessibility.
