Danny DeVito discusses his Penguin role and on-set experiences in a rare meeting with Colin Farrell, as both actors exchanged stories about portraying Gotham’s notorious villain for two generations. Their conversation, captured for a recent Actors on Actors series, offered insight into working with their respective Catwomen and highlighted the enduring appeal of the character.
Farrell took on the Penguin for HBO’s upcoming miniseries The Penguin after his appearance in Matt Reeves’ The Batman, while DeVito solidified his place as one of Gotham’s most memorable foes in Tim Burton’s 1992 film Batman Returns. The pair compared their experiences, particularly focusing on what it meant to inhabit such a complicated villain part, both internally and physically.
Behind the Scenes: Challenges and Chemistry on Set
A major talking point was the lengthy transformation involved in becoming the Penguin, with both actors sharing stories about spending hours in the makeup chair. DeVito reflected on the grueling yet rewarding process, recalling that his daily sessions stretched past three hours, but also brought camaraderie and routine, even integrating personal touches like cooking pasta on set.
Within this challenging professional environment, DeVito did not shy away from sharing his admiration for his Batman Returns co-star Michelle Pfeiffer, who played Catwoman. DeVito said, “She was a goddess,” expressing unabashed enthusiasm whenever he was set to share a scene with her. When Farrell jokingly pressed him with,
“Did you brush your teeth that morning?”
DeVito responded,
“I got all flushed. Put extra makeup on — ‘Give me another pound of makeup.’ It was very difficult.”
—Danny DeVito
DeVito continued to openly reflect on what it was like working closely with Pfeiffer:
“And I lusted after her. I loved her.”
—Danny DeVito. Farrell carried the banter further, asking,
“We’re moving on from your lust, just tell me what form did the lust take, behaviorally?”
The comedic exchange underscored the comfort and rapport both actors brought into their roles.
Attempting to separate himself from the Penguin’s overwhelming passions, DeVito explained,
“It was not me. It was the Penguin. It was Oswald that was lustful.”
—Danny DeVito. When Farrell enquired about Pfeiffer’s possible concerns, DeVito offered,
“I kind of feel like she liked it. She liked Oswald.”
—Danny DeVito.
The Allure and Freedom of Character Work
When asked whether he would take up the mantle of Oswald Cobblepot again, DeVito admitted he would “absolutely” return if Tim Burton called. Explaining what made the role so powerful for him, DeVito said,
“I loved it because it gave you a freedom that burst out, for you too. You can go off the rails with something.”
—Danny DeVito. He highlighted the “operatic element” Burton brought:
“was my favorite thing about it,”
—Danny DeVito said, referencing the grand soapy drama between characters like Michael Keaton’s Batman and Christopher Walken’s Max Shreck.
Exploring the character allowed DeVito to embrace the theatrical side of filmmaking, as he described:
“The music and sets and the whole thing… The Shakespeare of it — ‘All the world’s a stage.’ Oswald’s realm and his penguins and his minions and his passion. I loved that.”
—Danny DeVito. The element of elaborate sets and dramatic storytelling contributed to an experience he still cherishes.
Moments of levity—Behind the Mask
Despite the heavy transformation process and the dark, complex narrative, DeVito’s approach remained energetic and creative behind the scenes. Recalling the atmosphere during the shoot, he said,
“It’s a cakewalk. I was there every day for 66 days, in makeup, cooking pasta in the afternoon, having meals, making meatballs. I’m in the middle of a scene in the Penguin’s lair, and this wonderful guy who worked with me, I [call] him over. He goes through all these catwalks; he goes, ‘What is it, Dan?’ And I said, ‘Stir the sauce.’ He had to go back to the trailer to stir the tomato sauce.”
—Danny DeVito.
Enduring Impact of Gotham’s Darker Side
The exchange between DeVito and Farrell serves as a testament to how iconic characters can bridge generations of actors, each finding new layers and meaning in Gotham’s underworld. The dedication to their craft, the camaraderie with cast members, and the balance between professional rigor and on-set humor reveal why these portrayals resonate so deeply with audiences. As the Penguin continues to evolve on screen, fans and new viewers alike can look forward to fresh interpretations, all while appreciating the legacy left by DeVito, Pfeiffer, Farrell, and the visionary directors who brought these stories to life.
