Othello is one of William Shakespeare's most notable tragedies. It addresses themes of racism, love and betrayal that are as relevant today as they were when the work was first published in 1565. Several famous actors have played Othello on the stage and on the silver screen. This list of actors who have played Othello is loosely ranked by fame and popularity.
Who is the most famous actor who has played Othello? Anthony Hopkins tops our list. Anthony Hopkins played Othello in a 1981 TV movie directed by Jonathan Miller. James Earl Jones was originally cast in the production, but British Equity refused to issue Jones an acting permit because they wanted someone British to play the iconic role. Jones has portrayed Othello on several occasions, the first being in 1955 at the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee, Michigan.
Laurence Fishburne played Othello in the 1995 film directed by Oliver Parker. This movie marked the first time that Othello was played by an African American actor on film.
Who do you think did the best job portraying Othello? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
http://www.ranker.com/list/actors-who-have-played-othello/celebrity-lists,
Anthony Hopkins
Anthony Hopkins played Othello in a 1981 TV movie directed by Jonathan Miller.
Billy Crudup
Billy Crudup played the character Ned Kynaston, who played Othello, in the 2004 film Stage Beauty.
James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones has portrayed Othello on several occasions, the first being in 1955 at the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee, Michigan.
Laurence Fishburne
Laurence Fishburne played Othello in the 1995 film directed by Oliver Parker.
Laurence Olivier
Laurence Olivier played Othello in the 1965 film directed by Stuart Burge.
Orson Welles
Orson Welles played Othello in a 1952 film which he directed and produced.
Patrick Stewart
Patrick Stewart played Othello at Washington's Shakespeare Theatre in 1997.
Paul Robeson
Paul Robeson played Othello at the Savoy Theatre in 1930.
Richard Burton
Richard Burton played Othello at the the Old Vic Theatre in 1953.
Suresh Gopi
Suresh Gopi played Othello in the Malayalam film Kaliyattam in 1997.