The Penguin has been one of the most compelling shows of 2024 to date. Colin Farrell was a scene-stealer as Gotham’s scheming underworld boss Oz Cobb and Matt Reeves’s grim Gotham has once again kept viewers glued to their seats
Fans watched Oz ascend through the criminal hierarchy, so does The Penguin require another season? Which is why here are three reasons to leave the series as one for the time being.
 The Penguin series was meant to be an extension
THE PENGUIN season finale was just absolutely spectacular. Remarkably well written, acted, & directed & the most cinematic episode by far.
From the deeper exploration of the relationship between Oswald & his mother Francis, to the phenomenal, twisty handling of Sofia’s demise,… pic.twitter.com/7qmjOuEFEh
— Jesabel (@JesabelRaay) November 11, 2024
These days, when so many series seem to be endlessly extended, it can be easy to forget the strength inherent in a short run of storytelling. The Penguin was designed as a bridge between The Batman and its presumably in-the-works upcoming sequel, rather than an interminable series.
It played up all the things that make Gotham City villains so entertaining, and at the same time positioned the next chapter of The Batman. It has laid the groundwork for the Penguin that will appear in The Batman – Part II by fleshing out Oz’s character. The narrative bridge is built, and the show has arguably done its job.
Colin Farrell to take a break from tortuous make-up.
In case you needed further proof it’s really Colin Farrell under all that make up. #ThePenguin pic.twitter.com/E7qOLe6Nnz
— Sky TV (@skytv) October 2, 2024
Farrell, who did find the process of shooting while fully clad in prosthetics and heavy costumes grueling, was captivating as Oz. In an interview with Total Film where Farrell opened up about the exhausting toll it took upon him.
“I was complaining and moaning, to anyone who would listen to me, that I f*cking wanted it over with by the end of it.”
While Farrell has remained open to a return if the story called for it, he indicated just how much stamina is required to anchor an entire series as Oz Cobb. Farrell may have quick appearances in the Batman films, which are almost certainly less demanding, but a full second season seems like it could be too much.
Part of the allure of Gotham is its massive cast of characters—from baddies to fringe justice-seekers. Although The Penguin offered a grand tour of the world of Oz, the idea is not that every story should orbit him. Director Matt Reeves is also hinting about spin-offs with additional iconic characters—everyone from Two Face to Poison Ivy to even Mr. Freeze. (Credit: Esquire)
Finally, The Penguin did not leave viewers with a cliffhanger that needs to be followed up on. So with what we got for an ending, Oz is on a trajectory to show up in The Batman – Part II. Gotham: Eternal could finally give them the chance to explore different parts of the city and have other villains come to life.
Is this the end of The Penguin?
It’s not just a call. It’s a warning. #ThePenguin pic.twitter.com/WwfO89Wdtu
— The Penguin (@TheBatman) November 11, 2024
The Penguin was only meant to be a limited series even though the success of the HBO Max show might allow for a second season. It was meant to be a supporting element for other Batman movies — not an ongoing feature. Next up is Colin Farrell’s Ozzie Cobb, who will be back in The Batman – Part II, sharing the screen with Robert Pattinson’s Batman.
An incredible journey that The Penguin gave viewers and it’s perfectly fine if this is how it finishes up. The Penguin could have faded into the background easily, but thanks to Farrell, Milioti and a whole range of performances that will stick in memory long after this season ends, Gotham has set up an exciting next chapter.Â
Stay tuned to TheFlashsports to get more exciting news about the show.
