Who would you cast to play Othello from Shakespeare's play "Othello"?

Question

Okay, I'm looking for an African-American actor who seems rough on the outside but is really a kind and intelligent man. He has to also seem like a trusting person with morals.
As for appearences, he must be tall and muscular. I've already stated that he must be African-American but it will also be okay if the actor is muslim. Othello should look like he could easily defend himself in the case of an emergency.
Othello is a general (a very good one at that) and is also married to a white woman, who he ends up killing in cold blood. This actor must seem capable of doing this.
Please do not suggest any actors who have already played the role, whether it be in a movie or on stage.

Answer 1

Terence Howard does well in any role. I'd suggest Taye Diggs as well. He's not very tall though.

Answer 2

I absolutely agree with Terrence Howard. Gritty, but so much opportunity for depth of character. I think he could be a very intriguing Othello. If you're writing a paper on theoretical casting, then I would mention he may need further training, but he has passion, dedication [not to mention a true rawness that is breathtaking] to the craft that he would be easily adaptable into this more "classical" play. I think he could truly bring an interesting approach to the character.

Answer 3

Definitely Denzel Washington.

Answer 4

Interesting...nowhere in your list of qualifications do I see "classically trained" or "ability to speak Shakespearean verse"...you've described the CHARACTER adequately, but not much about the ACTOR qualified to tackle such a giant of a role.

Answer 5

Don Cheadle. He is a very talented actor (star of Crash/Hotel Rwanda) and he works very well with different dialects. Or Forest Whitaker.