Despite commenting on the challenging demands of playing The Penguin in the past, Colin Farrell clarified that he would be willing to return for a second season if the story and writing were as compelling as the first. Previously, Farrell joked that he never wanted to wear the Penguin’s heavy makeup and costume again, saying that due to the three hours of makeup work every day, he would “never put on that suit and head again.” However, after seeing the positive response to HBO’s Penguins, he admitted he was interested in reprising the role, provided the script remained strong.
Farrell explained that the enthusiastic response from fans, who praised the show’s gritty nature, changed his mind about continuing the role. A dark portrait of Gotham’s criminal underworld and Ferrell’s nuanced portrayal of notorious villain Ozzie Cobb. Farrell isn’t usually known for sticking with characters between takes, but he revealed that playing The Penguin prompted an approach he took. He felt that staying in character, even off-camera, was the easiest way to deal with the uncomfortable makeup and fully embody Ozzy Cobb’s dark persona. The heavy latex makeup served as a constant reminder of his transformation, making it easier for him to stay in character rather than “switch off” between takes.
Director Matt Reeves noted that the cast and crew were impressed by Farrell’s total commitment. Farrell’s co-stars even said they felt like they didn’t see the “real” Colin on set because he was so immersed in “Ozzy Cobb.” Farrell himself admitted that while the role was exciting, it was also psychologically demanding, especially given the brutal and complex nature of the role.
Farrell reflected on the character’s dark impact on his emotions, comparing it to the way tense movies can leave audiences unsettled. He stressed that while he wasn’t completely “lost” in the role, spending 14 hours a day in Penguin’s violent and chaotic world inevitably had an impact on him. He also expressed his gratitude for being able to play an iconic comic book villain with such a long history and recognized the privilege and weight of playing a character who is beloved by fans.
Farrell said that if a second season is greenlighted, he would consider reprising his role as The Penguin if the storyline and writing are as gripping as the first.
