HBO’s The Penguin series concluded its first season last weekend, leaving fans eager for more. The show introduced Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb, a character determined to take over Gotham’s criminal underworld and become its new kingpin.
With his ruthless approach, the character left a lasting impact, setting the stage for his involvement in The Batman Part II. However, while the season’s finale wrapped up the initial storyline, the future of the show remains uncertain.
A Limited Series with Room for More?
Initially, The Penguin was conceived as a one-off limited series with just eight episodes. The show’s primary purpose was to offer a deeper look at Farrell’s character, setting up his larger role in Matt Reeves’ The Batman universe. However, despite the series being designed as a standalone project, Farrell is open to the idea of returning for a second season, if the story makes sense.
When Collider’s Steve Weintraub asked Farrell about the possibility of another season, the actor admitted he was surprised by how well the series had been received by audiences. He expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support the show has gotten, calling it a “pleasant surprise” for everyone involved.
Farrell also took the time to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the show’s entire crew. “So many people put so much work into this, man — an extraordinary crew, tricky shooting conditions, long days, Lauren doing the job she did, Matt shepherding it as he did,” Farrell explained. He praised the efforts that went into creating the show, noting that its success has been a pleasant surprise for all involved.
Farrell’s View on Future Opportunities
While Farrell seems satisfied with The Penguin as a limited series, he made it clear that he would be open to returning if the right opportunity presented itself. However, this would only happen if it aligns with Matt Reeves’ larger vision for the Batman universe.
Reeves, who is developing a trilogy of Batman films, has played a central role in shaping the story and direction of Gotham, and any continuation of Oz Cobb’s story would need to fit within that framework.
Farrell shared that he would consider returning to the role of Oz Cobb only if the storyline made sense within the broader world Reeves is building. He added, “It was always a limited edition, so I’m okay with never doing it again outside of the films.”
While Farrell emphasized that he doesn’t feel a strong urge to revisit the character, he wouldn’t completely rule out the idea of a return. “If they came up with a pitch for eight hours that could work bilateral with Matt’s world… I certainly wouldn’t run towards it, but I’d walk towards it and have a good look. I’d be open to it,” Farrell explained.
The Future of The Penguin and The Batman
While Farrell’s openness to returning is a possibility, fans will have to wait and see what happens. The Penguin is currently streaming in its entirety on Max, and Farrell’s involvement in the Batman universe will continue with The Batman Part II, scheduled for release in 2026.
As of now, the story of Oz Cobb seems to be far from over, but whether or not it will expand into a second season of The Penguin is still up in the air.
For those wanting more from Farrell, there’s also an extended, spoiler-filled conversation available, where he reflects on the The Penguin finale and the impact it’s had on him and the crew.
