Currently airing its 17th season on FX, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia remains a staple of comedic television nearly two decades since it first premiered. Danny DeVito, who joined the cast beginning with the second season, has been an indispensable part of the show’s unique humor as Frank Reynolds. His portrayal has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless internet memes and memorable moments.
Season 17 continues to highlight DeVito’s comedic strengths, with episodes that showcase classic Frank scenarios. One notable episode, which aired on July 9 and is titled Frank Is in a Coma, explores how Frank’s hospitalization forces the rest of the gang to reconsider their lives and launch a new business idea, while Dee navigates the emotional stages of grief. This season consists of six episodes, offering plenty of laughs in the weeks ahead on Wednesday nights.
Danny DeVito Embraces the Show’s Bold and Unconventional Style
In an interview with Collider’s Joe Schmidt, DeVito reflected on his deep dedication to the series and his eagerness to embrace whatever creative challenges the writers present. He describes the dynamic within the show’s cast and crew as collaborative and energized. DeVito appreciates the ability to explore “radical stuff” with his colleagues, comparing the environment to a beautiful sunny day where one can dive into a refreshing body of water.
He emphasized the show‘s ongoing effort to keep each season fresh and exciting, stating,
“We keep throwing it up against the wall, trying to make a dent in the wall, bigger and bigger, build the box and take the lid off, try to keep it fresh and fun.”
DeVito further praised his co-stars Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, and Kaitlin Olson for their creative contributions, alongside himself and others who strive to
“hit a couple out of the park every once in a while.”
DeVito acknowledged the series’ offbeat humor that resonates strongly with fans, noting,
“We love it when we get our faces tattooed to somebody’s ass.”
He described the balance the writers maintain to keep the content simultaneously outrageous and entertaining, which fans consistently appreciate.
An April Fool’s Day Prank Script Left DeVito Both Shocked and Amused
While DeVito declares he is willing to try nearly anything for the show, there was one episode script that surprised him. On April 1st some years ago, a script arrived at his home, meant for the day’s table read, which initially appeared to be an official episode. The story centered on Frank getting arrested for soliciting a hooker and included graphic scenes of abuse in jail, which made DeVito uneasy as he read.
Before finishing the script, he called the cast members Kaitlin Olson, Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Glenn Howerton, who were laughing on the other end. The script’s last line revealed the prank: “April Fool’s, motherfucker.”
DeVito then got his playful revenge at an FX upfront event. He arranged with hotel management to provide his castmates with a single small room containing four cots, rather than the usual rooms. Hiding with a bottle of tequila, he delighted in watching their reaction and the ensuing chaos before revealing the prank. He recalled,
“I was in the closet with a tray of glasses and a bottle of tequila peeking out,”
and described this as a “good comeback.” He concluded with,
“Revenge is a sweet thing, whatever they say.”
Season 18 Filming Set to Begin in Late January
Looking ahead, Danny DeVito confirmed that filming for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 18 is scheduled to start at the end of January. Reflecting on the current season, he expressed excitement about the episodes and a renewed enthusiasm for the upcoming season. He mentioned the camaraderie among the cast and crew, making the experience enjoyable and fun despite the occasional challenges of television production.
DeVito also reminisced about his recent appearance in The Golden Bachelor, sharing how the production experience differed from the comedy set, but still involved amusing complications, especially due to his character’s antics. When discussing how the writing team operates, DeVito painted a vivid image of the creative process: it’s like the opposite of The Wizard of Oz storm, with ideas and chaos flying around as the writers push boundaries for new storylines.
When asked about the scope the writers have for Frank’s character, DeVito humorously remarked, “License to kill?” referring to the endless possibilities they explore in scripting Frank’s escapades.
DeVito Collaborates Again with Arnold Schwarzenegger for a New Project
Aside from his work on It’s Always Sunny, Danny DeVito is also teaming up with Arnold Schwarzenegger, his co-star from the film Twins. The two are currently writing and developing a new movie script, expected to move into production next year. DeVito expressed enthusiasm for the project, calling it an exciting opportunity and noting the promising progress with the scriptwriting process.
DeVito’s connection with Schwarzenegger remains strong, and he looks forward to resuming this partnership in the coming months, promising fans another collaboration between the two iconic actors.
‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ Remains a Comedy Fixture on FX
With new episodes of Season 17 currently airing on FX every Wednesday, fans can expect more classic Frank Reynolds moments from Danny DeVito. Following confirmation of Season 18’s filming start in January, viewers have assurance that the beloved characters will return with fresh misadventures and unpredictable humor. DeVito’s willingness to take bold creative risks continues to shape the series, keeping it vibrant and relevant after 20 years on air.
As the series advances, the upcoming season promises to maintain the irreverent and boundary-pushing style that has become synonymous with It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The combination of an experienced cast, creative writers, and a dedicated production team signals that the show’s future remains bright and full of comedic potential.
