PremiumThe Penguin legacy continues with Colin Farrell: From Danny DeVito to Robin Lord Taylor, every actor who made the Batman villain iconic
The Penguin is one of the most beloved anti-heroes from Gotham's tales, and here we list all the actors who have contributed to the character's legacy.
Last Updated: 04.21 PM, Sep 13, 2024
The realm of DC Elseworlds is currently buzzing, as it is set to witness not one but two Gotham villains in a span of two months. While Joker: Folie à Deux is nearing its release on the big screen in October, The Penguin, a show about Oz Cobb, is set to debut on streaming platforms next week. Starring Colin Farrell, the show has generated significant buzz, and there's a rich history behind the character, making him iconic for generations. Farrell's portrayal in The Batman: Part One alongside Robert Pattinson, directed by Matt Reeves, earned him critical acclaim. But this wasn’t the first time the character received such recognition.
Just like Colin Farrell’s Penguin in The Batman, the character has appeared in many different interpretations, with and without Bruce Wayne, on the screen. He has been explored in films and TV shows, and each portrayal has received widespread praise. As we eagerly await the upcoming release, let's take a look at some of the most iconic portrayals of The Penguin over the years. From live-action films to animated series, the character has been interpreted in numerous fascinating ways. Here are five of the most memorable performances, including a standout animated rendition.
Actors Who Made The Penguin Iconic
Danny DeVito in Batman Returns (1992)
Streaming On: Prime Video
Tim Burton’s Batman Returns is undoubtedly one of the most iconic films about the Caped Crusader and is considered a benchmark in the DC films realm. Danny DeVito was one of the key reasons why the movie became so iconic, and it’s hard to imagine the film without him. He brought comic-accurate physicality, dark humor, and a chaotic energy that fans adored. To this day, DeVito's version of The Penguin is regarded as one of the best. His unforgettable dynamic with Michelle Pfeiffer's Catwoman remains highly revered.
Burgess Meredith in the Batman TV Series (1966-1967)
Streaming On: Apple TV+
Going back in time, it was Burgess Meredith who breathed life into The Penguin and gave it one of its best interpretations. The 1966 Batman series is remembered for many reasons, and Meredith’s portrayal is one of the standout elements. The campy nature of the show was balanced by Meredith, who brought charm and sophistication to the role with the necessary drama. His performance is one of the most nostalgic and highly regarded versions of the character.
Robin Lord Taylor in Gotham (2014-2019)
Streaming On: N/A
Gotham was set in a world of Batman without Batman, giving rise to many of Gotham's famous characters. The Penguin got a full transformation arc in the show, starting as a small-time criminal and eventually rising to become a powerful mob boss. Robin Lord Taylor captured the character’s complex nature, blending menace with vulnerability, making Oswald Cobblepot's transformation from the comics come to life in a way that resonated deeply with fans.
Tom Kenny in Batman: The Brave and the Bold (2008-2011)
Streaming On: N/A
Who would have thought that the voice behind SpongeBob SquarePants would also give us one of the best renditions of The Penguin? Tom Kenny voiced the character in Batman: The Brave and the Bold, bringing an interesting twist to the role. His mix of humor and villainy was celebrated by audiences. Kenny’s ability to balance The Penguin's comedic elements with darker traits showcased the character's complexity in a family-friendly format.
Conrad Vernon in The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
Streaming On: Amazon Prime Video
In the realm of animated projects, The Lego Batman Movie, released in 2017, offered a lighter take on The Penguin. The film didn’t delve into the darkness of the character but instead presented a more humorous version of the anti-hero. Conrad Vernon’s portrayal stood out, and his voice work captured the essence of the character without losing The Penguin’s unique vibe.
The Penguin will release on September 19 on JioCinema in India and HBO Max in the West. Stay tuned to OTTplay for more updates on this and everything else from the world of streaming and films.