RHOA Fans Praise Kandi Burruss for Denzel Washington-Backed Othello

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” veteran Kandi Burruss is turning into a Broadway powerhouse. She is earning major applause for her latest producing triumph — a record-breaking revival of Shakespeare’s “Othello,” starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal. Directed by Kenny Leon, the Burruss-backed “Othello” has already shattered Broadway records in just a single week of previews. Here’s how the Bravo star brought this historic show to life, and why it’s resonating with her loyal supporters.

Denzel Washington’s Return to Broadway: A Family Affair

According to Burruss, Washington’s son, John David Washington, played a key role in luring the Oscar winner back to Broadway to star in “Othello.” She told People magazine at the Essence Black women in Hollywood Awards that the seeds were planted back in 2022 during the revival of “The Piano Lesson,” which Burruss and her husband Todd Tucker co-produced with lead producer Brian Anthony Moreland.

“We would see Denzel around that time, and that’s when Brian and Denzel initiated the conversation,” Burruss shared.

Fast forward to March 2025, nearly 50 years after his early career stint as Othello, Denzel has once again taken center stage as the tragic Moor. Gyllenhaal co-stars as the conniving Iago and Molly Osborne is taking on the role of Desdemona, backed by a stellar ensemble.

Kandi Burruss’ ‘Othello’ Was Breaking Records Before Opening Night

“Othello” began its preview phase on February 24, and then opened on March 23 at New York City’s Ethel Barrymore Theater. In just a few short days, it has already rewritten the Broadway history books. “Othello” is officially the highest-grossing play ever in a seven-day span, with ticket prices soaring.

The show ended up raking in $2.8 million in one week to outpace any prior play’s weekly earnings, with some Instagram fans noting that ticket prices were over $1,000.

Fans are getting what they pay for, though, and they are buzzing. Social media has lit up with praise since the previews, with many eying her for a Tony to add to her Grammy-winning resume. One fan declared on a post from The Neighborhood Talk, “She is on her way to that EGOT for sure!!!” This marks Burruss’s second Broadway producing credit after last year’s “The Wiz,” fueling chatter of an EGOT chase.

“We’re very thankful for the support from the fans, and believe me: Jake, Denzel, all the people in the show, they are here to bring it and you will not be disappointed,” Burruss said.

Fans Rally Behind the ‘RHOA’ Star Kandi Burruss’ Broadway Success

Instagram comments are reflecting a mix of awe and admiration for Burruss and Tucker’s latest feat. “Congratulations Kandi and Todd” wrote one supporter, while another cheered, “Wow! Congratulations @kandi and Todd Awesome!!”

Though some balked at the steep ticket prices (“$400 a ticket is just not in my budget,” wrote one fan) and one critic snarked about her restaurant ventures, the positivity drowned out the negative comments. The consensus hailed Burruss’ unstoppable drive, and many are predicting Tony glory.

“Real Housewives of Atlanta” is now streaming on Peacock.

Tell us! Are you surprised to see Kandi Burruss’ “Othello” be such a huge hit right out of the gate? Let us know in the comments below.