Denzel Washington, starring in Othello, dismisses Hollywood labels, calling himself a stage actor first.

The 70-year-old screen legend, currently starring in a Broadway revival of Othello alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, made it clear in a recent interview with CBS News’ Sunday Morning that he sees himself as a stage actor first, despite decades of Hollywood success.

When asked about his identity in the film industry, Washington pushed back against the idea of being a “Hollywood actor.”

“What’s the definition of a Hollywood actor? Myself, I’m from Mt. Vernon, so I’m a ‘Mt. Vernon actor.’ I don’t know what ‘Hollywood’ means,” he said, referencing his New York hometown.

He then questioned the entire concept: “Somebody who’s famous on film? A film actor, great success on film?” His answer? That’s not him.

Despite winning two Academy Awards for Glory (1989) and Training Day (2001), Washington insisted that his true passion has always been theatre.

“I did stage first. I learned how to act on stage, not on film. Movies are a filmmaker’s medium. You shoot it, and then you’re gone, and they cut it together and add music. Theatre is an actor’s medium. The curtain goes up, nobody can help you,” he explained.

Washington also shared how legendary actor James Earl Jones was his inspiration when he was a college student.

“He was my northern star. He was who I wanted to be,” Washington said.

He even joked that his early performances of Othello could rival Jones’. “I didn’t get to see his Othello, but I know it wasn’t as good as my 22-year-old interpretation,” he quipped.

Now, decades later, it’s Washington’s turn. His portrayal of Shakespeare’s tragic Moor is currently captivating audiences at Broadway’s Barrymore Theatre, proving that despite his Hollywood accolades, his heart remains on the stage.

This isn’t Washington’s first time returning to theatre. His previous Broadway performances in Fences and A Raisin in the Sun earned critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

For Washington, theatre is about pure performance, free from the edits and manipulation of filmmaking.

“In movies, you’re part of a bigger machine. But in theatre, it’s just you and the audience. There’s nowhere to hide,” he explained.

While Hollywood continues to celebrate him, Washington makes it clear—his true home is on the stage.