Colin Farrell and Danny DeVito recently joined Variety Studio’s Actors on Actors series to discuss their portrayals of The Penguin, a character central to Gotham’s lore. Both actors explored how they individually brought depth to the role, highlighting the nuances behind the Danny DeVito Penguin role and Farrell’s modern interpretation.
Comparing Two Versions of Gotham’s Iconic Villain
While their paths first crossed during the production of Tim Burton’s Dumbo in 2019, the conversation focused on Oswald Cobblepot’s evolution. DeVito, who originally portrayed The Penguin in Batman Returns, and Farrell, who reimagined the villain in The Batman and the upcoming Max series The Penguin, shared insights into the tragic backgrounds that shaped their characters and the distinct approaches they each took to embody the infamous villain.
Transformation and Prosthetics Shape the Performance
Both actors reflected on the intense physical transformations needed to become The Penguin. They recalled working with Tim Burton and described how the heavy makeup and prosthetics played a crucial role in creating their distinctive look, adding an element of “strange joy” in watching themselves vanish under the layers. Farrell hinted at further development of his character in the forthcoming spin-off series, while DeVito expressed satisfaction at witnessing a darker reimagination of the figure he previously portrayed.
Shared Moments and Lighthearted Memories
Beyond their villainous roles, the duo shared some light moments about their collaborations, including DeVito’s amusing experience joining the cast of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia when he first found the show confusing. Their candid conversation revealed not only their dedication to the craft but also the camaraderie developed over years of intersection in their careers.
Enduring Impact and What’s Next for The Penguin
Their exchange highlights the lasting impact the character of The Penguin has had on popular culture, driven by the distinct contributions of both Danny DeVito and Colin Farrell. With Farrell’s upcoming series on Max, audiences can expect a fresh chapter in the villain’s saga, promising new layers to Gotham’s dark narrative.
