The Penguin is an American crime drama television miniseries created by Lauren LeFranc for HBO.
Serving as a spin-off from the 2022 film The Batman, the series delves into the rise of Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, also known as the Penguin, as he navigates the treacherous waters of Gotham City's criminal underworld. Set against the backdrop of Gotham's dark and gritty atmosphere, the show picks up after the events of The Batman, exploring how Cobblepot consolidates power and deals with rival factions in the city.
The cast features Colin Farrell reprising his role as Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, bringing depth to a character that has captivated audiences. Joining him are Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, Rhenzy Feliz as Victor Aguilar, and a talented ensemble including Clancy Brown, Carmen Ejogo, and Michael Kelly. Each character adds layers to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of intrigue and conflict that reflects the complexities of Gotham's criminal landscape.
Production for The Penguin began in March 2023 in New York City, following a series of developments that started in September 2021. Lauren LeFranc was brought on board as the writer, with Matt Reeves, director of The Batman, overseeing the creative direction. Craig Zobel directed the first three episodes, while filming faced interruptions due to the 2023 Hollywood labor disputes. However, production resumed in late November and wrapped up in February 2024, ensuring that fans would soon see this highly anticipated series.
The Penguin premiered in the United States on HBO on September 19, 2024, with an eight-episode run scheduled to conclude on November 10, 2024. The series is also available for streaming on Max. Initially set for a mid-2024 release, its debut was postponed due to industry strikes. Additionally, Sky Group acquired broadcast rights in select European countries, allowing audiences to enjoy the series on Sky Atlantic and its streaming service Now starting September 20, 2024. With its engaging storyline and dynamic characters, The Penguin promises to be a thrilling addition to the DC universe.