Colin Farrell has firmly established himself as the face of The Penguin since starring in Matt Reeves’ The Batman in 2022. Following the film’s success, HBO launched a spin-off series titled The Penguin, featuring Farrell as Oz Cobb, Gotham’s infamous crime figure. While the prospects of a second season of the series remain uncertain, Farrell’s next appearance in Reeves’ Batman universe may be in the upcoming The Batman — Part II, with the script now complete and anticipation growing about how the character’s evolution will unfold.
Farrell Reflects on Returning to a Unique Gotham Experience
During a conversation with Collider’s Perri Nemiroff about his role in The Ballad of a Small Player, Farrell was asked what convinced him to return to Reeves’ Batman universe for the sequel. Responding to Nemiroff’s question, Farrell expressed how rare it is to find roles that truly challenge him, but that being part of this particular Gotham world is exceptional. He said:
“I love that world. I mean, I loved it as a fan of film since Batman ‘66. I grew up watching that, and Burgess Meredith was my first Penguin, and then Danny DeVito was my second Penguin. Then Chris Nolan’s work, of course, was extraordinary in that universe. But to see how Matt [Reeves] has re-envisioned a world that’s unique enough and still honors the struggles of that city and the psychological struggles of the character of Bruce Wayne, and Batman, and who is the shadow of who — is Bruce Wayne the real guy, or is Batman? Just to be part of that world… Honestly, just to be in something that takes place in Gotham, where a character called Bruce Wayne and Batman exist, is such a joy for me.”
More About The Batman II Cast and Collaboration Than Character Development
Farrell acknowledged how the eight-episode HBO series allowed ample time to explore Oz Cobb’s character in depth, describing the experience as “being spoiled rotten.” However, regarding The Batman Part II, his enthusiasm centers more on working alongside familiar faces rather than solely focusing on his own role’s growth. Farrell shared:
“So, it’s less about ‘what can I do.’ I was spoiled rotten with eight hours on HBO. It’s less of ‘what can I do with this,’ and more just to be in that world and be around Robert and be around Jeffrey again, and be led by Matt Reeves. It’s something I’m really excited about again, just to be around it.”
This points to Farrell’s appreciation for the collaborative nature of Reeves’ Gotham, highlighting the importance of returning alongside Robert Pattinson as Bruce Wayne and Jeffrey Wright as Commissioner Gordon.
Upcoming Appearances and Ongoing Impact of The Penguin
Audiences can continue to explore Colin Farrell’s portrayal of Oz Cobb by watching the HBO series The Penguin. Additionally, Farrell will soon be seen in the upcoming film The Ballad of a Small Player, which is scheduled for release in theaters on October 29. His return to Reeves’ Gotham universe signifies ongoing interest in these complex characters and promises further development in the Batman mythos, especially as the sequel to The Batman approaches.
Key Cast of The Penguin Series
The Penguin centers on Oz Cobb, portrayed by Colin Farrell, and also features Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, adding depth to the dark and intricate world of Gotham’s criminal underground.
