Othello Review — David Harewood's Fiery General and Toby Jones’s Cunning Iago
Read our review of Shakespeare's tragedy Othello, directed by Tom Morris, currently showing at the Theatre Royal Haymarket until 17 January 2026. Discover more theatre reviews on LondonTheatre.co.uk.
David Harewood’s Return to Othello
Nearly 30 years ago, David Harewood made history as the first Black actor to play Othello at the National Theatre. Now, he reprises the role of the Moorish general tragically undone by the deceit of his ensign, Iago.
Although Harewood did not perform the role in 1997 for our review, he has described that earlier portrayal as one marked by intense rage, "balling and screaming" in response to accusations of Desdemona’s infidelity and Iago’s betrayal.
A New Interpretation in Tom Morris’s Production
In this polished West End staging, Harewood initially presents Othello as a man tempered by experience and wisdom. However, his composed authority quickly unravels as Iago’s manipulations take hold, transforming him into a brutal, hotheaded figure blind to the true nature of those around him.
The Dynamic Partnership with Toby Jones
Harewood’s complex portrayal is matched by Toby Jones’s brilliantly wicked performance as Iago, providing a perfect counterpart in this tense psychological battle.
"Who could pull off such complex trickery? Harewood has a wonderfully wicked scene partner in Toby Jones."
Author's summary: David Harewood’s powerful Othello, shaped by years of experience yet undone by jealousy, is compellingly matched by Toby Jones's sinister Iago in Tom Morris’s West End production.