Introduction
HBO’s The Penguin premiered on September 19, 2024, delivering a gritty, crime-driven spin-off from The Batman (2022). The eight-episode limited series charts Oswald “Oz” Cobb’s rise in Gotham’s underworld. As the show wraps its first season, attention turns to how it connects with the broader Batman universe—and what lies ahead.
Premiere and Release Schedule
The Penguin debuted on HBO and Max on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 9 p.m. ET, with the premiere re-aired multiple times that weekend . The remaining episodes followed a weekly schedule, airing Sundays at 9 p.m. ET from September 29 through November 10 . The finale, titled “A Great or Little Thing,” aired on November 10, 2024 .
Series Overview and Context
Set one week after the events of The Batman, the series explores Oz Cobb’s ascent in Gotham’s criminal hierarchy . Colin Farrell reprises his role as the Penguin, joined by Cristin Milioti as Sofia Falcone, Rhenzy Feliz as Victor, and Deirdre O’Connell as Francis Cobb . The show was conceived as a limited series to bridge the gap between The Batman and its sequel .
Critical Reception and Awards
Critics widely praised The Penguin for its performances, writing, direction, and production values . At the 2025 Creative Arts Emmy Awards, the series won eight technical awards, including hairstyling, costumes, prosthetic makeup, visual effects, and sound editing/mixing . These accolades underscore the show’s craftsmanship and immersive production.
Behind the Scenes: Production Challenges
Production began in March 2023 in New York but was halted in June due to the Hollywood strikes. Filming resumed in late November and wrapped in February 2024 . Colin Farrell described the tone as “incredibly violent” and “really dark,” noting that one particularly brutal scene cast an “awful funk” over the set . John Turturro declined to reprise his role as Carmine Falcone, citing discomfort with the show’s depiction of violence toward women; Mark Strong took over the role .
Connection to The Batman: Part II
The series was designed to launch Oz Cobb into The Batman: Part II, with Colin Farrell confirmed to reprise his role in the sequel . The Batman: Part II is currently scheduled for October 2027 . Showrunner Lauren LeFranc emphasized that a second season of The Penguin is unlikely before the film’s release—and may never happen unless it can surpass the first season in quality .
What’s Not Coming Back
A recent update confirms that a popular villain from The Penguin will not appear in The Batman: Part II, signaling creative divergence between the two projects .
What’s Next for Fans
With the first season concluded and The Batman: Part II on the horizon, the future of The Penguin remains uncertain. HBO has not greenlit a second season, though discussions may continue depending on creative direction and audience interest . In the meantime, the industry and fans alike will watch how Oz Cobb’s story unfolds in the upcoming film.
Key Takeaways
- The Penguin premiered on September 19, 2024, and ran for eight episodes through November 10.
- The series earned critical acclaim and multiple technical Emmy wins.
- It serves as a narrative bridge to The Batman: Part II, slated for October 2027.
- A second season remains unconfirmed and contingent on the film’s direction and creative viability.
As Gotham’s criminal landscape evolves, all eyes are on how Oz Cobb’s journey continues—on screen and beyond.
