Austin Stowell to star in ‘NCIS Origins’ (Photo credit: Dave Allocca / Courtesy of CBS)
CBS has found its young Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Catch 22‘s Austin Stowell has signed on to play Gibbs in the NCIS prequel, NCIS: Origins, which was given a series order in early January 2024.
“NCIS: Origins, produced by CBS Studios, is the newest chapter in the NCIS franchise, exploring Gibbs’ early years. Narrated by Mark Harmon, the new series begins in 1991, years prior to the events of NCIS, and follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs,” reads CBS’s synopsis. “In the series, Gibbs starts his career as a newly minted special agent at the fledgling NCIS Camp Pendleton office where he forges his place on a gritty, ragtag team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks.”
Harmon originated the character and played Gibbs for 19 seasons, beginning in 2003. In addition to narrating, Harmon will be involved in the prequel as an executive producer.
CBS has found its young Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Catch 22‘s Austin Stowell has signed on to play Gibbs in the NCIS prequel, NCIS: Origins, which was given a series order in early January 2024.
“NCIS: Origins, produced by CBS Studios, is the newest chapter in the NCIS franchise, exploring Gibbs’ early years. Narrated by Mark Harmon, the new series begins in 1991, years prior to the events of NCIS, and follows a young Leroy Jethro Gibbs,” reads CBS’s synopsis. “In the series, Gibbs starts his career as a newly minted special agent at the fledgling NCIS Camp Pendleton office where he forges his place on a gritty, ragtag team led by NCIS legend Mike Franks.”
Harmon originated the character and played Gibbs for 19 seasons, beginning in 2003. In addition to narrating, Harmon will be involved in the prequel as an executive producer.
- 3/4/2024
- by Rebecca Murray
- Showbiz Junkies
Giancarlo Esposito portrayed Gustavo “Gus” Fring in the award-winning TV series Breaking Bad for multiple seasons and reprised the role for the spinoff Better Call Saul. But in a recent interview, the actor revealed why he was initially reluctant to do it.
Giancarlo Esposito joined the ‘Breaking Bad’ cast in 2009 Giancarlo Esposito poses for a photo at the Critics Choice Awards I Matt Winkelmeyer via Getty Images
Breaking Bad is an acclaimed AMC series that aired for five seasons from 2008 to 2013. The drama follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a chemistry teacher who begins selling drugs with his student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul).
It also introduces Jimmy McGill, aka Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk) — Walt and Jesse’s conman lawyer. And in season 2, Giancarlo Esposito joined the cast as Gus Fring, a Chilean drug kingpin working with them.
Esposito appeared in Breaking Bad Seasons 2, 3, and 4. In 2017, he reprised his role for Better Call Saul...
Giancarlo Esposito joined the ‘Breaking Bad’ cast in 2009 Giancarlo Esposito poses for a photo at the Critics Choice Awards I Matt Winkelmeyer via Getty Images
Breaking Bad is an acclaimed AMC series that aired for five seasons from 2008 to 2013. The drama follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a chemistry teacher who begins selling drugs with his student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul).
It also introduces Jimmy McGill, aka Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk) — Walt and Jesse’s conman lawyer. And in season 2, Giancarlo Esposito joined the cast as Gus Fring, a Chilean drug kingpin working with them.
Esposito appeared in Breaking Bad Seasons 2, 3, and 4. In 2017, he reprised his role for Better Call Saul...
- 2/18/2023
- by Mishal Ali Zafar
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Exclusive: Oscar nominee and 2x Golden Globe winner James Franco will play Cuban leader Fidel Castro in Miguel Bardem’s Aline of Cuba with Imagen Award winner Mía Maestro set to play Natalia “Naty” Revuelta, the Cuban-born socialite he has a passionate love affair with.
They join previously announced actress Ana Villafañe who is portraying Alina Fernandez aka Castro’s Daughter. The screenplay from Oscar-nominated scribe Jose Rivera (The Motorcycle Diaries) and Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz, follows the true-life story of Cuban exile turned social advocate, Fernandez, whose birth was the result of the tryst between Revuelta and Castro. Revuelta sacrificed her and her physician husband’s personal belongings and finances to help fund the start of the communist revolution. Fernandez learned that she was Fidel Castro’s daughter at the age of 10 when after years of secret visits to her home, her mother finally revealed that “El Comandante” was her biological father.
They join previously announced actress Ana Villafañe who is portraying Alina Fernandez aka Castro’s Daughter. The screenplay from Oscar-nominated scribe Jose Rivera (The Motorcycle Diaries) and Pulitzer Prize winner Nilo Cruz, follows the true-life story of Cuban exile turned social advocate, Fernandez, whose birth was the result of the tryst between Revuelta and Castro. Revuelta sacrificed her and her physician husband’s personal belongings and finances to help fund the start of the communist revolution. Fernandez learned that she was Fidel Castro’s daughter at the age of 10 when after years of secret visits to her home, her mother finally revealed that “El Comandante” was her biological father.
- 8/4/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Scott Haze (Jurassic World Dominion) has signed on to star alongside Orlando Bloom and Andie MacDowell in the action-thriller Red Right Hand, from directors Ian and Eshom Nelms (Fatman).
The film penned by Jonathan Easley follows Cash (Bloom), who is trying to live an honest and quiet life, taking care of his niece Savannah in the Appalachian hills of Odim County. When the sadistic Queenpin Big Cat (MacDowell), who runs the town, forces him back into her services, Cash learns he’s capable of anything—even killing—to protect the town and the only family he has left. As the journey gets harder, Cash is drawn into a nightmare that blurs the lines between good and evil.
Haze will play Cash’s brother-in-law Finney, who spurs the change in him when he gets into debt to MacDowell’s Queenpin. Asbury Park Pictures is the project’s financier, and is producing alongside Traction.
The film penned by Jonathan Easley follows Cash (Bloom), who is trying to live an honest and quiet life, taking care of his niece Savannah in the Appalachian hills of Odim County. When the sadistic Queenpin Big Cat (MacDowell), who runs the town, forces him back into her services, Cash learns he’s capable of anything—even killing—to protect the town and the only family he has left. As the journey gets harder, Cash is drawn into a nightmare that blurs the lines between good and evil.
Haze will play Cash’s brother-in-law Finney, who spurs the change in him when he gets into debt to MacDowell’s Queenpin. Asbury Park Pictures is the project’s financier, and is producing alongside Traction.
- 4/18/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Vertical Entertainment has signed a deal with Mister Smith Entertainment for North American distribution rights to romantic comedy “The Hating Game,” which stars “Pretty Little Liars” actor Lucy Hale and Austin Stowell, who also appeared with her in “Fantasy Island.” Vertical is planning to give it a theatrical release later this year.
“The Hating Game,” which is based on the hit novel by Sally Thorne, tells the story of kind-hearted Lucy Hutton (Hale) and her cold, efficient nemesis Joshua Templeton (Stowell). Resolving to achieve professional success without compromising her ethics, Lucy embarks on a ruthless game of one-upmanship against Josh, a rivalry that is impossibly complicated by her growing attraction to him.
Peter Hutchings (“Then Came You”) directed Christina Mengert’s adaptation of the book.
“The Hating Game” novel was a 2018 USA Today Bestseller and was published in more than 20 countries. It is often identified as one of the key...
“The Hating Game,” which is based on the hit novel by Sally Thorne, tells the story of kind-hearted Lucy Hutton (Hale) and her cold, efficient nemesis Joshua Templeton (Stowell). Resolving to achieve professional success without compromising her ethics, Lucy embarks on a ruthless game of one-upmanship against Josh, a rivalry that is impossibly complicated by her growing attraction to him.
Peter Hutchings (“Then Came You”) directed Christina Mengert’s adaptation of the book.
“The Hating Game” novel was a 2018 USA Today Bestseller and was published in more than 20 countries. It is often identified as one of the key...
- 7/12/2021
- by Leo Barraclough and John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
At least not “right now,” actor tells The Sunday Times
Seth Rogen says he has no plans to work with James Franco again following multiple accusations of misconduct against his friend and frequent movie collaborator.
That is in contrast to what Rogen said in 2018, when asked the same question after multiple women accused Franco of misbehavior. At the time, Rogen said he would continue to work with his friend.
“I also look back to that interview in 2018 where I comment that I would keep working with James, and the truth is that I have not and I do not plan to right now,” Rogen told The Sunday Times.
Franco and two of his former acting students, Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal, settled a lawsuit in February in which they accused the actor of intimidating them into gratuitous and exploitative sexual situations. The two former students of Franco’s Playhouse West...
Seth Rogen says he has no plans to work with James Franco again following multiple accusations of misconduct against his friend and frequent movie collaborator.
That is in contrast to what Rogen said in 2018, when asked the same question after multiple women accused Franco of misbehavior. At the time, Rogen said he would continue to work with his friend.
“I also look back to that interview in 2018 where I comment that I would keep working with James, and the truth is that I have not and I do not plan to right now,” Rogen told The Sunday Times.
Franco and two of his former acting students, Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal, settled a lawsuit in February in which they accused the actor of intimidating them into gratuitous and exploitative sexual situations. The two former students of Franco’s Playhouse West...
- 5/10/2021
- by Tony Maglio
- The Wrap
James Franco and two former students in his acting school have reached a tentative deal to settle a 2019 lawsuit in which they accused the actor of intimidating them into gratuitous and exploitative sexual situations.
According to a joint status report filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court on Feb. 11, actresses and ex-students Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal have agreed to drop their individual claims against Franco and his Playhouse West Studio 4. “The settlement will be further memorialized in a Joint Stipulation of Settlement to be filed with the Court at a later date,” the law firm Valli Kane & Vagnini said in a statement.
No further details were given of the agreement or if a financial settlement was part of the deal.
The two former students of Franco’s Playhouse West Studio 4 said in a 2019 lawsuit that the class was a front in which Franco and his business partners, Vince Jolivette and Jay Davis,...
According to a joint status report filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court on Feb. 11, actresses and ex-students Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal have agreed to drop their individual claims against Franco and his Playhouse West Studio 4. “The settlement will be further memorialized in a Joint Stipulation of Settlement to be filed with the Court at a later date,” the law firm Valli Kane & Vagnini said in a statement.
No further details were given of the agreement or if a financial settlement was part of the deal.
The two former students of Franco’s Playhouse West Studio 4 said in a 2019 lawsuit that the class was a front in which Franco and his business partners, Vince Jolivette and Jay Davis,...
- 2/21/2021
- by Rosemary Rossi
- The Wrap
Check out the We Are Movie Geeks interview with Inherit The Viper star Margarita Levieva Here
Some debts can’t be paid when Inherit the Viper arrives on Blu-ray (plus DVD & Digital) and DVD March 10 from Lionsgate. This film is currently available on Digital and On Demand. Inherit the Viper stars Josh Hartnett, Margarita Levieva, Owen Teague, Valorie Curry, Chandler Riggs, Brad William Henke, Tara Buck), with Dash Mihok, and Academy Award® nominee Bruce Dern. A tense crime thriller with powerful performances, Inherit the Viper will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $22.99 and $19.98, respectively.
For siblings Kip (Josh Hartnett) and Josie (Margarita Levieva), dealing opioids isn’t just their family business—it’s their only means of survival. When a deal goes fatally wrong, Kip decides he wants out. But Kip’s attempt to escape his family’s legacy ignites a powder keg of violence and betrayal,...
Some debts can’t be paid when Inherit the Viper arrives on Blu-ray (plus DVD & Digital) and DVD March 10 from Lionsgate. This film is currently available on Digital and On Demand. Inherit the Viper stars Josh Hartnett, Margarita Levieva, Owen Teague, Valorie Curry, Chandler Riggs, Brad William Henke, Tara Buck), with Dash Mihok, and Academy Award® nominee Bruce Dern. A tense crime thriller with powerful performances, Inherit the Viper will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $22.99 and $19.98, respectively.
For siblings Kip (Josh Hartnett) and Josie (Margarita Levieva), dealing opioids isn’t just their family business—it’s their only means of survival. When a deal goes fatally wrong, Kip decides he wants out. But Kip’s attempt to escape his family’s legacy ignites a powder keg of violence and betrayal,...
- 3/6/2020
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
James Franco is responding to two women who claim they were sexually exploited by his now-defunct acting school.
Franco, 41, filed a demurrer, a written objection to the lawsuit filed in October by Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal, claiming the allegations were “salacious” and that the two were “attention-hungry,” in court documents obtained by People.
“While the salacious allegations in the complaint have made great tabloid fodder, they are also false and inflammatory, legally baseless and brought improperly in the form of a class action largely to gain as much publicity as possible,” the demurrer stated.
“This lawsuit is a travesty...
Franco, 41, filed a demurrer, a written objection to the lawsuit filed in October by Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal, claiming the allegations were “salacious” and that the two were “attention-hungry,” in court documents obtained by People.
“While the salacious allegations in the complaint have made great tabloid fodder, they are also false and inflammatory, legally baseless and brought improperly in the form of a class action largely to gain as much publicity as possible,” the demurrer stated.
“This lawsuit is a travesty...
- 3/2/2020
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco is being sued by two women who claim they were sexually exploited by his now-defunct acting school.
Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal have filed a lawsuit against the actor, 41, claiming he and his business partners “engaged in widespread inappropriate and sexually charged behavior towards female students by sexualizing their power as a teacher and an employer by dangling the opportunity for roles in their projects,” according to court documents obtained by People.
The two allege the circumstances “led to an environment of harassment and sexual exploitation both in and out of the class.” They’re suing Franco for sex discrimination,...
Sarah Tither-Kaplan and Toni Gaal have filed a lawsuit against the actor, 41, claiming he and his business partners “engaged in widespread inappropriate and sexually charged behavior towards female students by sexualizing their power as a teacher and an employer by dangling the opportunity for roles in their projects,” according to court documents obtained by People.
The two allege the circumstances “led to an environment of harassment and sexual exploitation both in and out of the class.” They’re suing Franco for sex discrimination,...
- 10/3/2019
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
Exclusive: With Gotham nearing the end of its five-season run, Robin Lord Taylor has booked his followup series gig – a recurring role on the upcoming second season of Netflix’s You.
The actor, who has played power hungry Oswald Cobblepot on Fox’s Batman prequel since the pilot episode, will play Will on You. Will deals with unsavory sorts as part of his job, but is himself a thoughtful, personable, and highly intelligent guy who marches to the beat of his own drummer. That is, until he gets trapped in a bad situation.
You, which also hails from Gotham producer Warner Bros., follows bookstore manager Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley). In the freshman season, which was based on Caroline Kepnes’ best-selling novel of the same name and aired on Lifetime, Goldberg becomes obsessed with his customer Guinevere Beck (Elizabeth Lail), using social media and the internet to stalk her.
The show...
The actor, who has played power hungry Oswald Cobblepot on Fox’s Batman prequel since the pilot episode, will play Will on You. Will deals with unsavory sorts as part of his job, but is himself a thoughtful, personable, and highly intelligent guy who marches to the beat of his own drummer. That is, until he gets trapped in a bad situation.
You, which also hails from Gotham producer Warner Bros., follows bookstore manager Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley). In the freshman season, which was based on Caroline Kepnes’ best-selling novel of the same name and aired on Lifetime, Goldberg becomes obsessed with his customer Guinevere Beck (Elizabeth Lail), using social media and the internet to stalk her.
The show...
- 2/15/2019
- by Rosy Cordero
- Deadline Film + TV
In 2015, two years before #MeToo, the porn industry severed ties with its golden boy, James Deen. Three days after the “kinky feminist” with boy-next-door good looks was accused of sexual assault by three women, major studios Evil Angel and Kink.com cut all financial ties with him. While its content includes “consensual and exploratory aggressive and rough sex,” a representative for Evil Angel said Deen’s behavior was “contrary to [the] company values.” Deen was a porn star with mainstream crossover appeal who was known and celebrated for performing hardcore sex, yet the porn industry saw no gray area when it came to consent.
That’s a concept Hollywood still can’t seem to grasp. “The Deuce,” a television show about sex, sex work, and the porn industry, did nothing about the allegations against its own golden boy actor and executive producer, James Franco, who stands accused of sexual assault or misconduct by five different women.
That’s a concept Hollywood still can’t seem to grasp. “The Deuce,” a television show about sex, sex work, and the porn industry, did nothing about the allegations against its own golden boy actor and executive producer, James Franco, who stands accused of sexual assault or misconduct by five different women.
- 10/10/2018
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
James Franco is reportedly in talks to direct an upcoming adaptation of James Andrew Miller and Tom Shales’ 2011 nonfiction book “Those Guys Have All the Fun: Inside the World of ESPN” (via Collider). The book provides an oral history of the creation of ESPN, the network that has dominated sports news since its creation in 1979. Collider reports Focus Features is behind the project.
In addition to Franco being eyed to direct, “Halt and Catch Fire” co-creator Christopher C. Rogers is being tapped to rewrite the script. The story centers around the efforts made by ESPN creator Bill Rasmussen and his son, Scott, to launch the 24-hour sports network. Bennett Miller was originally hired to write the screenplay in 2015, which is described as being in the same vein as “Moneyball” and “The Social Network.”
The report is notable since Franco has not announced any major directing projects since being accused of sexual misconduct in January.
In addition to Franco being eyed to direct, “Halt and Catch Fire” co-creator Christopher C. Rogers is being tapped to rewrite the script. The story centers around the efforts made by ESPN creator Bill Rasmussen and his son, Scott, to launch the 24-hour sports network. Bennett Miller was originally hired to write the screenplay in 2015, which is described as being in the same vein as “Moneyball” and “The Social Network.”
The report is notable since Franco has not announced any major directing projects since being accused of sexual misconduct in January.
- 7/25/2018
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Someone get James Franco a mint! The 40-year-old actor is the latest celeb to get slammed for his kissing skills by a co-star. Zoey Deutch, who starred alongside James in the comedy Why Him?, revealed that she was not impressed at all on Watch What Happens Live. "Meh," she responded when asked to describe James' kissing style. She also described his breath as "not good" and agreed when host Andy Cohen called the kiss "not memorable." It is surprising that Zoey dissed James' makeout ability, seeing as Busy Phillips, who was the Spiderman star's first on-screen kiss, had only nice things to say. "[James] was definitely my first on-screen kiss," she told InStyle. "Part of what was so genius about that show was that we were all fairly young — I didn't know anything. So for on-screen kisses, I was like, 'I guess you just kiss the person like you would kiss your boyfriend.
- 6/21/2018
- by Anna Quintana
- Life and Style
Exclusive: Gravitas Ventures has acquired White Rabbit, the Daryl Wein-directed narrative dramatic comedy inspired by the performance art work of Vivian Bang, a Korean American performance artist who struggles to break through in Los Angeles. The pic premiered at Sundance last January. Gravitas Ventures will release theatrically in La and simultaneously on demand September 21.
Bang co-wrote and co-produced the movie with Wein under his banner Mister Lister Films. She will star in upcoming Netflix comedy Always Be My Maybe alongside Keanu Reeves, Ali Wong and Randall Park. Wein founded Mister Lister Films with partner, Zoe Lister-Jones. He directed Lola Versus, Breaking Upwards, Blueprint, and Consumed, and on the small screen, he helmed Mozart in the Jungle for Amazon.
Said Gravita Ventures’ Laura Florence: “Vivian Bang gives an incredible performance in White Rabbit and we are proud to be partnering with such a talented filmmaking team.”
White Rabbit also...
Bang co-wrote and co-produced the movie with Wein under his banner Mister Lister Films. She will star in upcoming Netflix comedy Always Be My Maybe alongside Keanu Reeves, Ali Wong and Randall Park. Wein founded Mister Lister Films with partner, Zoe Lister-Jones. He directed Lola Versus, Breaking Upwards, Blueprint, and Consumed, and on the small screen, he helmed Mozart in the Jungle for Amazon.
Said Gravita Ventures’ Laura Florence: “Vivian Bang gives an incredible performance in White Rabbit and we are proud to be partnering with such a talented filmmaking team.”
White Rabbit also...
- 6/15/2018
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
James Franco turns 40 today, after what’s been a tumultuous year for the actor.
The actor began the year on a high note, earning critical praise for his performance as Tommy Wiseau in The Disaster Artist, a film he also directed. As award season approached, Franco was thought to be a frontrunner for a best actor Oscar nomination.
But in January, the actor became embroiled in the national discussion of sexual harassment when he wore a Time’s Up pin at the Golden Globe Awards. While he won an award for his performance in The Disaster Artist, just days later...
The actor began the year on a high note, earning critical praise for his performance as Tommy Wiseau in The Disaster Artist, a film he also directed. As award season approached, Franco was thought to be a frontrunner for a best actor Oscar nomination.
But in January, the actor became embroiled in the national discussion of sexual harassment when he wore a Time’s Up pin at the Golden Globe Awards. While he won an award for his performance in The Disaster Artist, just days later...
- 4/19/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame got an unwelcome amendment this week.
The actor’s placard, which he was honored with in 2013, was defaced with the word “douche” written in capital letters with a red marker. It’s unclear who graffitied the star.
The vandalism comes after Franco was accused of sexual misconduct by several woman. His name was first brought into the national discussion of sexual harassment in January after he wore a Time’s Up pin at the 2018 Golden Globe Awards, where he won a trophy for his role in The Disaster Artist.
In...
The actor’s placard, which he was honored with in 2013, was defaced with the word “douche” written in capital letters with a red marker. It’s unclear who graffitied the star.
The vandalism comes after Franco was accused of sexual misconduct by several woman. His name was first brought into the national discussion of sexual harassment in January after he wore a Time’s Up pin at the 2018 Golden Globe Awards, where he won a trophy for his role in The Disaster Artist.
In...
- 4/10/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
Sharon Stone is standing by James Franco after he was accused of sexual misconduct by several woman.
During an appearance on Marc Maron’s Wtf podcast, the 60-year-old actress — who appeared alongside Franco in The Disaster Artist — stood by her costar and director, calling him “the loveliest, kindest, sweetest, elegant, nicest man.”
“I’m appalled by this thing about him that is happening” she said. “Now all of a sudden he’s a bad guy? I worked with him, I know him. … He’s a kind friend, lovely professional. I’m absolutely appalled by this.”
Stone, who has had a...
During an appearance on Marc Maron’s Wtf podcast, the 60-year-old actress — who appeared alongside Franco in The Disaster Artist — stood by her costar and director, calling him “the loveliest, kindest, sweetest, elegant, nicest man.”
“I’m appalled by this thing about him that is happening” she said. “Now all of a sudden he’s a bad guy? I worked with him, I know him. … He’s a kind friend, lovely professional. I’m absolutely appalled by this.”
Stone, who has had a...
- 3/13/2018
- by Dave Quinn
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco was digitally removed from the cover of Vanity Fair‘s annual Hollywood issue after he was accused of sexual misconduct by several woman.
“We made a decision not to include James Franco on the Hollywood cover once we learned of the misconduct allegations against him,”a Vanity Fair spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter.
The magazine’s 2018 cover for its annual Hollywood issue — which featured (among others) Nicole Kidman, Tom Hanks, Jessica Chastain, Gal Gadot, Harrison Ford, Michael B. Jordan, Zendaya, and Robert De Niro — has already grabbed headlines for its PhotoShop blunders that mistakenly gave Reese Witherspoon a...
“We made a decision not to include James Franco on the Hollywood cover once we learned of the misconduct allegations against him,”a Vanity Fair spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter.
The magazine’s 2018 cover for its annual Hollywood issue — which featured (among others) Nicole Kidman, Tom Hanks, Jessica Chastain, Gal Gadot, Harrison Ford, Michael B. Jordan, Zendaya, and Robert De Niro — has already grabbed headlines for its PhotoShop blunders that mistakenly gave Reese Witherspoon a...
- 1/26/2018
- by Dave Quinn
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco continues to struggle after several women accused him of sexually inappropriate behavior.
Sources tell People that the actor, who was just snubbed by the Academy Awards for his role in The Disaster Artist, isn’t doing well in the aftermath of the allegations.
“His team wants him to continue making public appearances. He thinks he can save his image,” one of the sources says. “He looks like he hasn’t slept for days. He’s just a mess.”
Echoes a second source, “This whole process has been very hard on him. He’s been shaken up.”
However on Tuesday,...
Sources tell People that the actor, who was just snubbed by the Academy Awards for his role in The Disaster Artist, isn’t doing well in the aftermath of the allegations.
“His team wants him to continue making public appearances. He thinks he can save his image,” one of the sources says. “He looks like he hasn’t slept for days. He’s just a mess.”
Echoes a second source, “This whole process has been very hard on him. He’s been shaken up.”
However on Tuesday,...
- 1/24/2018
- by Ale Russian
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco isn’t letting his Oscar snub keep him down.
The actor was spotted grabbing lunch with friend Jeff Garlin in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Franco kept his head down as he left celebrity hotspot Jones on Third just hours after the nominations were announced.
He wore a baseball cap pulled over his head, a white shirt and jeans for the casual outing.
Despite being an awards season frontrunner, Franco failed to net a Best Actor Oscar nomination for The Disaster Artist, after winning a Golden Globe and Critics Choice award for his performance.
The film was however nominated for the Best Adapted Screenplay.
The actor was spotted grabbing lunch with friend Jeff Garlin in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Franco kept his head down as he left celebrity hotspot Jones on Third just hours after the nominations were announced.
He wore a baseball cap pulled over his head, a white shirt and jeans for the casual outing.
Despite being an awards season frontrunner, Franco failed to net a Best Actor Oscar nomination for The Disaster Artist, after winning a Golden Globe and Critics Choice award for his performance.
The film was however nominated for the Best Adapted Screenplay.
- 1/24/2018
- by Jodi Guglielmi
- PEOPLE.com
Violet Paley and Sarah Tither-Kaplan — two of the women who have accused actor James Franco of sexually exploitative behavior, which he has denied — appeared on Good Morning America, Tuesday, to discuss their alleged experiences with the star.
Paley, 23, brought Franco’s name into the national discussion of sexual harassment earlier this month after he wore a Time’s Up pin at the Golden Globe Awards. “Cute #TimesUp pin, James Franco,” she tweeted, then called out alleged examples of Franco’s inappropriate behavior.
“It was impulsive to tweet that,” Paley told Gma of publicly making the allegations of Franco’s actions,...
Paley, 23, brought Franco’s name into the national discussion of sexual harassment earlier this month after he wore a Time’s Up pin at the Golden Globe Awards. “Cute #TimesUp pin, James Franco,” she tweeted, then called out alleged examples of Franco’s inappropriate behavior.
“It was impulsive to tweet that,” Paley told Gma of publicly making the allegations of Franco’s actions,...
- 1/23/2018
- by Dave Quinn
- PEOPLE.com
Despite being an awards season frontrunner, James Franco failed to net a best actor Oscar nomination for The Disaster Artist, after winning a Golden Globe and Critics Choice award for his performance. Tuesday’s snub arrives after multiple women came forward to accuse him of sexual harassment.
The film was however nominated for the best adapted screenplay Oscar.
In an article published in the Los Angeles Times on Jan. 11, five women accused the actor of abusing his power as an acting teacher and mentor in a sexually exploitative manner. In it, two students claimed the actor would often become angry...
The film was however nominated for the best adapted screenplay Oscar.
In an article published in the Los Angeles Times on Jan. 11, five women accused the actor of abusing his power as an acting teacher and mentor in a sexually exploitative manner. In it, two students claimed the actor would often become angry...
- 1/23/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco chose to attend the 2018 Screen Actors Guild Awards despite multiple accusations of sexually inappropriate behavior. Franco was nominated for the award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in “The Disaster Artist.” The SAG Award went to Gary Oldman for “Darkest Hour.”
The Los Angeles Times published a report on January 11 in which five women went on record accusing Franco of sexually inappropriate and exploitative behavior. Four of the accusers are Franco’s former acting students.
Read More:Alison Brie on James Franco Accusations: ‘Not Everything That’s Been Reported Is Fully Accurate’
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was an actor on the set of Franco’s film “The Long Home” and was asked by a producer to appear in a “bonus scene” that included a simulated orgy. She agreed to appear fully nude in the background of the scene, but she told the Times that she saw...
The Los Angeles Times published a report on January 11 in which five women went on record accusing Franco of sexually inappropriate and exploitative behavior. Four of the accusers are Franco’s former acting students.
Read More:Alison Brie on James Franco Accusations: ‘Not Everything That’s Been Reported Is Fully Accurate’
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was an actor on the set of Franco’s film “The Long Home” and was asked by a producer to appear in a “bonus scene” that included a simulated orgy. She agreed to appear fully nude in the background of the scene, but she told the Times that she saw...
- 1/22/2018
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
James Franco was spotted at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday — his first public appearance in the wake of allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior.
Franco, 39, attended the ceremony with his girlfriend Isabel Pakzad.
In a red carpet interview with E!, his sister-in-law Alison Brie, nominated for her role in Glow, defended the Disaster Artist star.
“I think that above all what we’ve always said is that it remains vital that anyone that feels victimized should and does have the right to speak out and come forward,” she said. “I obviously support my family, and not everything that’s been reported has been accurate,...
Franco, 39, attended the ceremony with his girlfriend Isabel Pakzad.
In a red carpet interview with E!, his sister-in-law Alison Brie, nominated for her role in Glow, defended the Disaster Artist star.
“I think that above all what we’ve always said is that it remains vital that anyone that feels victimized should and does have the right to speak out and come forward,” she said. “I obviously support my family, and not everything that’s been reported has been accurate,...
- 1/22/2018
- by Jodi Guglielmi and Mia McNiece
- PEOPLE.com
Alison Brie is standing by her brother-in-law James Franco.
The actress defended Franco amid allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior while walking the red carpet at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday.
“I think that above all what we’ve always said is that it remains vital that anyone that feels victimized should and does have the right to speak out and come forward,” she said. “I obviously support my family, and not everything that’s been reported has been accurate, so I think we’re waiting to get all the information. But of course now is the time for listening,...
The actress defended Franco amid allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior while walking the red carpet at the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Sunday.
“I think that above all what we’ve always said is that it remains vital that anyone that feels victimized should and does have the right to speak out and come forward,” she said. “I obviously support my family, and not everything that’s been reported has been accurate, so I think we’re waiting to get all the information. But of course now is the time for listening,...
- 1/21/2018
- by Jodi Guglielmi
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco is digging into his past in the wake of allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior.
“James has been reaching out to former girlfriends for the past month asking about his behavior,” a source tells People. “He’s known this was coming and was trying to get ahead of the story.”
Following news of the allegations, Franco, 39, took a step back from the spotlight — even skipping the Critics Choice Awards last week where he won the Best Actor honor for his role in The Disaster Artist.
But despite being a no-show, Franco is still set to attend the Screen Actors Guild Awards this weekend,...
“James has been reaching out to former girlfriends for the past month asking about his behavior,” a source tells People. “He’s known this was coming and was trying to get ahead of the story.”
Following news of the allegations, Franco, 39, took a step back from the spotlight — even skipping the Critics Choice Awards last week where he won the Best Actor honor for his role in The Disaster Artist.
But despite being a no-show, Franco is still set to attend the Screen Actors Guild Awards this weekend,...
- 1/17/2018
- by Jodi Guglielmi
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco’s response to the sexual assault and harassment allegations against him is earning praise from one of the leaders of the #MeToo movement.
Ashley Judd, a longtime advocate for women’s rights and sexual assault survivor, told HARDtalk’s Stephen Sackur that she was pleased with Franco’s response to accusations he had acted inappropriately towards a number of women in the past.
“I think that what James said is terrific,” Judd told the BBC journalist. “And I think that we’ve all behaved, at a certain level, unconsciously, and done things that were insensitive, inappropriate, without necessarily understanding that they were.
Ashley Judd, a longtime advocate for women’s rights and sexual assault survivor, told HARDtalk’s Stephen Sackur that she was pleased with Franco’s response to accusations he had acted inappropriately towards a number of women in the past.
“I think that what James said is terrific,” Judd told the BBC journalist. “And I think that we’ve all behaved, at a certain level, unconsciously, and done things that were insensitive, inappropriate, without necessarily understanding that they were.
- 1/13/2018
- by Mike Miller
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco’s path to the 2018 Oscars appeared bright on Sunday following his Golden Globe win for best actor in a comedy or musical for The Disaster Artist. Now with allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior emerging against him, does he still have a shot at an Academy Award — and what happens to the rest of the awards race?
The actor, 39, skipped Thursday’s Critics’ Choice Awards, where he won the award for best actor in a comedy. He is also nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Jan. 21, but is now weighing his options about whether to attend, a source says.
The actor, 39, skipped Thursday’s Critics’ Choice Awards, where he won the award for best actor in a comedy. He is also nominated for the Screen Actors Guild Awards on Jan. 21, but is now weighing his options about whether to attend, a source says.
- 1/12/2018
- by Nigel Smith
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco has chosen not to attend the 2018 Critics’ Choice Awards following multiple accusations of sexually inappropriate behavior. Franco won the award for Best Actor in a Comedy for his performance in “The Disaster Artist.” The film was also nominated for Best Comedy Film and Best Actor.
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
The Los Angeles Times published a report on January 11 in which five women went on record accusing Franco of sexually inappropriate and exploitative behavior. Four of the accusers are Franco’s former acting students.
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was an actor on the set of Franco’s film “The Long Home” and was asked by a producer to appear in a “bonus scene” that included a simulated orgy. She agreed to appear fully nude in the background of the scene, but she told the Times that she saw Franco...
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
The Los Angeles Times published a report on January 11 in which five women went on record accusing Franco of sexually inappropriate and exploitative behavior. Four of the accusers are Franco’s former acting students.
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was an actor on the set of Franco’s film “The Long Home” and was asked by a producer to appear in a “bonus scene” that included a simulated orgy. She agreed to appear fully nude in the background of the scene, but she told the Times that she saw Franco...
- 1/12/2018
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
James Franco is stepping back from the spotlight as allegations of sexually inappropriate behavior emerge against him.
The actor skipped Thursday’s Critics Choice Awards where he won the Best Actor honor for his role in The Disaster Artist.
“He’s in a really bad place, so bad that he changed his phone number,” a source close to the situation told People. “His close friends are trying to be there for him but it’s been hard – he’s only talking to a select group of people. For now, he’s just hiding out.”
During an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers on Wednesday,...
The actor skipped Thursday’s Critics Choice Awards where he won the Best Actor honor for his role in The Disaster Artist.
“He’s in a really bad place, so bad that he changed his phone number,” a source close to the situation told People. “His close friends are trying to be there for him but it’s been hard – he’s only talking to a select group of people. For now, he’s just hiding out.”
During an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers on Wednesday,...
- 1/12/2018
- by Christina Dugan
- PEOPLE.com
“The Deuce” creator and writer David Simon is assuring fans that James Franco was “entirely professional” on the set of the HBO porn drama following sexual harassment allegations made against the actor. Franco stars in the show but also directed several episodes and serves as one of its producers.
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
“I’m still reading it the same as everyone else, trying to discern what is or isn’t there,” Simon told Variety in a statement. “Personally I can only speak knowledgeably to ‘The Deuce.’ I’ve checked with all my fellow producers and other personnel. We have no complainant or complaint or any awareness of any incident of concern involving Mr. Franco. Nor has HBO been approached with any complaint.
Simon concluded: “In our experience, he was entirely professional as an actor, director, and producer.
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
“I’m still reading it the same as everyone else, trying to discern what is or isn’t there,” Simon told Variety in a statement. “Personally I can only speak knowledgeably to ‘The Deuce.’ I’ve checked with all my fellow producers and other personnel. We have no complainant or complaint or any awareness of any incident of concern involving Mr. Franco. Nor has HBO been approached with any complaint.
Simon concluded: “In our experience, he was entirely professional as an actor, director, and producer.
- 1/11/2018
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
James Franco called sexual misconduct allegations against him “not accurate” in a late night interview ahead of the publication of a Los Angeles Times report in which five women accused the actor of abusing his power as an acting teacher and mentor in a sexually exploitative manner.
Appearing on Late Night with Seth Meyers on Wednesday, Franco was asked about the sexual harassment allegations leveled at him on social media after he wore a Time’s Up pin at Sunday’s Golden Globe Awards.
Though Franco called the tweets that he read on the matter “not accurate,” he said that...
Appearing on Late Night with Seth Meyers on Wednesday, Franco was asked about the sexual harassment allegations leveled at him on social media after he wore a Time’s Up pin at Sunday’s Golden Globe Awards.
Though Franco called the tweets that he read on the matter “not accurate,” he said that...
- 1/11/2018
- by Stephanie Petit
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco was forced to confront the sexual harassment allegations against him during a visit on “Late Night with Seth Meyers.” The actor-director told Stephen Colbert earlier in the week that the accusations were “not accurate,” a statement he stood by while speaking to Meyers about the issue. But Franco also remained adamant about believing women’s stories and told Meyers that if his career has to take a knock because he won’t “actively refute” the allegations then so be it.
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
“One of the things that I’ve learned is that this is a conversation that obviously needs to be had,” Franco said. “If I have to take a knock because I am not going to try and actively refute things then I will, because I believe in [people’s stories being heard] that much.”
When pressed about...
Read More:James Franco Accused of Sexually Exploitative Behavior by Five Women in Los Angeles Times Report
“One of the things that I’ve learned is that this is a conversation that obviously needs to be had,” Franco said. “If I have to take a knock because I am not going to try and actively refute things then I will, because I believe in [people’s stories being heard] that much.”
When pressed about...
- 1/11/2018
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
James Franco has been accused of sexually inappropriate behavior by five women — four of whom were his students.
In a new article published in the Los Angeles Times, five women have accused the actor of abusing his power as an acting teacher and mentor in a sexually exploitative manner.
Sarah Tither-Kaplan, a former acting student at the film school Franco founded, said the actor once removed safety guards while filming an oral sex scene on the set of the 2015 film The Long Home.
“I got it in my head pretty quickly that, Ok, you don’t say ‘no’ to this guy,...
In a new article published in the Los Angeles Times, five women have accused the actor of abusing his power as an acting teacher and mentor in a sexually exploitative manner.
Sarah Tither-Kaplan, a former acting student at the film school Franco founded, said the actor once removed safety guards while filming an oral sex scene on the set of the 2015 film The Long Home.
“I got it in my head pretty quickly that, Ok, you don’t say ‘no’ to this guy,...
- 1/11/2018
- by Jodi Guglielmi
- PEOPLE.com
James Franco has been accused of sexually inappropriate and/or exploitative behavior by five women in a new report from the Los Angeles Times. Four of the accusers are Franco’s former acting students, while the fifth woman viewed Franco as a mentor to her. The majority of the women describe uncomfortable encounters with Franco on film sets in which the actor would pressure women into appearing nude and would grow frustrated when they refused.
Sign Up:James Franco Responds to Sexual Harassment Allegations, Says Twitter Claims Are ‘Not Accurate’
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was asked by Franco in 2015 to play a prostitute in his feature film “The Long Home.” She agreed to perform nudity in scenes, as she considered the role a big break for her career, but she says one day on set a producer approached her and asked if she would film a “bonus scene” that included an orgy.
Tither-Kaplan...
Sign Up:James Franco Responds to Sexual Harassment Allegations, Says Twitter Claims Are ‘Not Accurate’
Sarah Tither-Kaplan was asked by Franco in 2015 to play a prostitute in his feature film “The Long Home.” She agreed to perform nudity in scenes, as she considered the role a big break for her career, but she says one day on set a producer approached her and asked if she would film a “bonus scene” that included an orgy.
Tither-Kaplan...
- 1/11/2018
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
Five women have stepped forward to accuse actor-director James Franco of sexually exploitative or inappropriate behavior, the Los Angeles Times reported Thursday. One former student at Franco’s Studio 4 acting school, Sarah Tither-Kaplan, told the Times she was cast as a prostitute in 2015 in an as-yet-unreleased feature called “The Long Home” and then asked to perform a “bonus scene” depicting an orgy in which Franco would simulate oral sex on several women. Tither-Kaplan claimed that Franco removed a clear plastic guard that covered the actresses’ vaginas and continued to simulate oral sex with no protection — an account another actress...
- 1/11/2018
- by Thom Geier
- The Wrap
Great Point Media has secured worldwide sales rights to The Long Home, the pic directed by and starring James Franco based on William Gay’s 1999 Southern Gothic novel. Ashton Kutcher, Josh Hartnett, Garret Dillahunt, Timothy Hutton, Tim Blake Nelson, Giancarlo Esposito and Courtney Love also star in the pic, set in the 1940s Deep South. The script adapted by Steve Janas centers on Dallas Hardin (Franco), a charismatic but vicious bootlegger and pimp, who hires Nathan…...
- 11/2/2017
- Deadline
Tamsin Egerton is pregnant!
The actress’s baby belly was on full display while attending the Vanity Fair Oscars party alongside partner Josh Hartnett on Sunday, where she happily noshed on beignets.
“This is not feeding the baby nourishment,” joked Egerton, 28.
The couple posed for photos during the evening, where the Camelot star wore a long-sleeve black gown with a high neckline.
Want all the latest pregnancy and birth announcements, plus celebrity mom blogs? Click here to get those and more in the People Babies newsletter.
Egerton and Hartnett, 38, have been together since 2012 and welcomed a daughter in late 2015.
“She...
The actress’s baby belly was on full display while attending the Vanity Fair Oscars party alongside partner Josh Hartnett on Sunday, where she happily noshed on beignets.
“This is not feeding the baby nourishment,” joked Egerton, 28.
The couple posed for photos during the evening, where the Camelot star wore a long-sleeve black gown with a high neckline.
Want all the latest pregnancy and birth announcements, plus celebrity mom blogs? Click here to get those and more in the People Babies newsletter.
Egerton and Hartnett, 38, have been together since 2012 and welcomed a daughter in late 2015.
“She...
- 2/27/2017
- by Jen Juneau
- PEOPLE.com
Robert Pattinson western, Michael Douglas-exec’d drama among 10-15 strong slate.
UK fund manager Great Point Media is launching its most ambitious film sales slate to date with more than ten films debuting at the Afm.
Having previously invested in a number of films to have secured Us deals this year, including Rachel Weisz drama Complete Unknown [pictured] which went to Amazon, and Christine Vachon-produced The Goat, which was sold to Paramount for the world, the three-year-old company is now going hard at the international film sales space on projects it has invested in at an early stage.
Owned by former Rhi Entertainment president Robert Halmi Jr and former Ingenious executive Jim Reeves, Great Point’s Afm slate includes Alicia Vikander and Eva Green drama Euphoria, Sally Potter’s The Party; William H Macy-directed Krystal; Christine Vachon-produced Where Is Kyra? with Michelle Pfeiffer and Kiefer Sutherland; Ansel Elgort-Suki Waterhouse drama Jonathan; Katie Holmes comedy...
UK fund manager Great Point Media is launching its most ambitious film sales slate to date with more than ten films debuting at the Afm.
Having previously invested in a number of films to have secured Us deals this year, including Rachel Weisz drama Complete Unknown [pictured] which went to Amazon, and Christine Vachon-produced The Goat, which was sold to Paramount for the world, the three-year-old company is now going hard at the international film sales space on projects it has invested in at an early stage.
Owned by former Rhi Entertainment president Robert Halmi Jr and former Ingenious executive Jim Reeves, Great Point’s Afm slate includes Alicia Vikander and Eva Green drama Euphoria, Sally Potter’s The Party; William H Macy-directed Krystal; Christine Vachon-produced Where Is Kyra? with Michelle Pfeiffer and Kiefer Sutherland; Ansel Elgort-Suki Waterhouse drama Jonathan; Katie Holmes comedy...
- 11/2/2016
- by andreas.wiseman@screendaily.com (Andreas Wiseman)
- ScreenDaily
Fox’s Gotham TV series has been going strong for two seasons and is now renewed for a third. The show began with a focus on (future Commissioner) Jim Gordon’s early career in Gotham, but has quickly expanded to include the early days of many Batman villains as well. One of the most striking of these is The Penguin; a previously cartoonish character (in screen adaptations) who has been masterfully portrayed in Gotham by Robin Lord Taylor as a complex young man who rises from being a minor player in Fish Mooney’s entourage to becoming the self-proclaimed “King of Gotham.” Taylor’s nuanced portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot, The Penguin, has made him a compelling, horrifying, and yet somehow still sympathetic character – one I’m invested in even while I’m despising what he does.
After having had the opportunity to speak with Taylor by phone in the week leading up to Awesome Con in Washington, DC, and to meet him at the Con, I can see where The Penguin’s charm and disarming manner originate; but fortunately for us, and unlike The Penguin, Taylor himself strikes me as a delightful human being; and he has a lot to say about his role in Batman’s Rogues’ Gallery.
Read on below for a most enjoyable interview; or listen here for the audio version.
Esw: Robin, your current role on Gotham is a big part of your career, and The Penguin, as we all know by two seasons in, has been called a “breakout character.” I love the nuances that you bring to the Penguin, who is a mix of pathos and viciousness. Are there any parts of his character that come from you, or that you identify with?
Rlt: Yeah; I mean, the thing that really got me into the human aspect of Oswald was, when I first got the job, I reached out to Geoff Johns, who’s the chief creative officer of DC Comics, and I was like, “Do you know any stories?” Because obviously I’d grown up with Batman, and Batman Returns was huge, and the Adam West series was also huge, but beyond that I really didn’t know very much about the character.
And he found some stories; he found one in particular which was Penguin: Pain and Prejudice; and in that story, they really went into detail about Oswald’s childhood, and how when he was young, he was horrifically bullied. Which is not something that I ever experienced, to that extent; but the fact that he had always felt like an outsider – you know, growing up in a small town in the Midwest, I definitely identified with that feeling. Like, just because you didn’t look like everybody else, or there was something different about you – like in my case, I was just not a “sporty” person, and I basically grew up in Friday Night Lights. So it’s just that feeling of outsider-ness, and also that feeling of being counted out just by things that are out of your control. So that was the first thing I really hooked in to. I was like, “Oh, I understand what this feels like,” and it just made him all the more human for me.
And on top of that, his ambition is something that – you know, obviously I don’t think I share quite the same amount of ambition, in the sense that I, you know, value human life! But out of all of the years of basically being rejected by everyone, and having that feed into his outsized ambition – that was another thing that I totally could identify with and understand.
Esw: I read somewhere that when you did the audition, they didn’t actually tell you it was the Penguin. Do you recall if there were any particular acting choices you made in that audition that still define the character or that rolled over into the actual on-screen character?
Rlt: Yeah; the scene itself that they gave us to audition for was a fake scene – it was not in the pilot at all, and the names were all different. But the scene involved, I believe, the Penguin character was named Paul or something, and he’s having this meeting with a Mafia don, and trying to get this person to do some deal for him. Of course the don is not into it, and that’s when it’s revealed that Paul has had the Mafia don’s daughter kidnapped, and she’s about to be “taken care of” unless he does his bidding.
And in that scene, all of that is the epitome of Oswald, and that ability to sort of play – you know, in the first part of the scene before it’s revealed that he has the daughter kidnapped, he’s very obsequious, and kind of meek, and deferring to the Mafia don; being lower status. And then there’s that switch halfway through where it’s like, “Oh no no no, actually I’m driving the ship right now; I’m steering the ship.” You know, “You’re going to listen to me.” So going from that humble, almost meek, low status attitude that he had, and then immediately switching to be the guy on top; that was something that I think I definitely carried through to the show that we do now.
Esw: Generally, in previous characterizations of The Penguin on screen he’s portrayed in a more cartoonish style. Can you talk about what you did to make him more real in the Gotham show sense, and yet keep him defined as he is in the comics so that he’s still recognizable as the character?
Rlt: First of all, I give so much, if not all credit, to Bruno Heller, and Danny Cannon, and our other producers and writers on the show. It started with Bruno and Danny, this vision and this treatment of the character. It starts with them, and then I step in and we collaborate. Again, going back to what I said before, learning how he was bullied – it was more about finding…you know this is a fantastic world. It’s being able to see this character as an actual person who could exist. Which is actually kind of the allure of Batman itself in the sense that of course it’s still a comic book, and crazy shit happens that would never happen in the real world, but it’s always rooted in the fact that Batman is not supernatural, that Batman is a human being.
And that even though it is this gothic, noir, colorful, crazy world that we inhabit in Gotham City, it’s still all rooted in reality, in the sense that, like, gravity exists, and these are human beings, and there is real pathos behind everyone.
And it’s about justifying every choice that this character makes so that every action he takes, there’s a reason behind it; it’s not just being evil for the sake of being evil. Also what I love about the character is that – at one point in the second season, Galavan is trying to get him to help him get some real estate deal going, and that would require tearing down a big chunk of Gotham City, and Oswald is not into it. He says, “Look, I’m a builder, I’m not a demolition person. I’m not interested in tearing everything down.” He’s interested in controlling everything, but also building alliances and making connections and using that to his advantage. So I guess it would be making sure that everything he does and says comes from a real place – a real desire for Oswald to be – I don’t know if it’s accepted, or feared, or both!
Esw: You mention that Oswald is a builder and has these particular goals. He’s a monster in many ways, but he seems to have his own moral code. How would you define his moral code?
Rlt: I would say: Oswald is all about – do not come for him. If you do, you will pay. He remembers every single slight against him, every person who ever hurt him or tried to hurt him. All that, again, stemming from a childhood where he’s an outcast in so many ways, like being a first generation immigrant, for example, in our show. I guess his moral code is just: “Don’t tread on me.” But that’s the thing – with the exception of the poor fisherman in the pilot, and maybe the guy who delivered the flowers from Maroni – a couple of people who really didn’t deserve what they got – for the most part, everyone whom he attacks, it’s motivated by revenge, and it’s all strategy for Oswald. He is anti-chaos. Chaos is not interesting to him; that’s not a place where he can get the power that he needs to survive. He wants order.
Esw: Anti-chaos. It makes me think that perhaps we’re playing Dungeons & Dragons. He’s a lawful evil – not chaotic at all.
Rlt: Yeah, totally!
Esw: Now in the second season, trying to rule Gotham, Penguin needs some worker-bee villains who will be loyal to him; and then we get Butch’s betrayal in that second season. It’s a very tricky proposition, getting those loyal worker-bees and knowing that he can rely on them. What traits about the character do you think would believably cement a henchman’s loyalty and how do you establish that?
Rlt: In a way, I think even though, you know, he chopped off Butch’s hands, you know, big deal – but even those things have happened, I think that Penguin himself, and it goes back to his anti-chaos attitude, I think he is actually also interested in being loyal to people as well. I think he knows that if you treat people well, you get more from them. You get more loyalty; and ultimately, that can be exploited as well.
You see this very, very clearly in his relationship with Jim Gordon, in the sense that for all intents and purposes they should be arch-enemies. But for some reason, it’s this delicate dance and a push and a pull between the two of them that is important to Oswald. Because that keeps Jim in his world and again, that can be exploited in the future if need be. So I think he does reciprocate loyalty to the people that he is trusting and that’s ultimately how he can get people to join his side.
And also, this goes into – because his actions are justified, and because we understand why he does the things he does, there’s a sympathetic side to this character. And I think that comes through to the other characters as well; in the sense that there’s something enigmatic about him that draws people in.
If I had to root this in the character’s history, I would say that this is something he learned as a survival instinct, when he’s being bullied or when he was being basically tortured by his peers when he was younger. This is what you learn; you learn to ingratiate yourself to people. You make yourself seem more meek and sympathetic, and then eventually they come around, and that’s when you stick the knife in.
Esw: Speaking of that, he’s a pretty dark character, and you seem like a nice guy. Do you have difficulty getting into and out of that character?
Rlt: I really don’t, actually! I know that sounds crazy, but… Look, I’ve never played a character that physically is so different from who I am in real life. And so with the hair, the makeup, the costume – all of those pieces coming together every day that I have to work, is – and this is generally how I work as an actor too – is I generally start from the outside and I go in. I let the physicality and the costuming help me get into character so I’m ready. And also, again, it goes to the sets that we shoot, and the locations that we use. With all of these things, it’s like I’m stepping into Oswald, I’m stepping into Gotham City. And at the end of the day, the nose comes off, and the hair is different, and I take these beautiful suits and I put them back in the closet and then I’m back to me. It’s great to have that physical transformation that gets you into character; and from that it’s generally pretty easy.
Esw: He does have some really cool suits!
Rlt: God, they’re amazing. The sucky thing is they’re not quite my, Robin Lord Taylor’s, style, so it’s not like I could ever really wear them anywhere. But also – as you can probably tell, I’m one of the least confrontational people that ever lived. And so it’s actually therapeutic in a way. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s really fun to step onto the set and step into the character and then all of a sudden I’m the guy who’s pushing everybody’s buttons, and I’m the guy who’s messing with everybody and starting shit. And it’s liberating, and it’s fun in a way.
Esw: I can understand that. So Oswald has been through a huge journey in season 2 – he was on top; he lost his mother; he convinced Gordon to murder somebody; he was messed with by Hugo Strange; he met his father; fell back into murder; now he wants revenge and all of Strange’s monsters are out there, and Mooney is back… Can you talk about how you think season 2 changed him, or what you think he’ll be doing in season 3?
Rlt: I think that in season 2 – it happened twice for him, with the loss of his mother and then the loss of his father – and there’s that lovely speech that Cory Michael Smith as Nygma gave Oswald. It was after his mother died, before he knew his father existed – Nygma says, “You’re free now.” The gist is – and this is a continuing theme throughout our entire show – to love is to be vulnerable. You see throughout the show, characters are falling in love, or they have love in their lives, and then they lose it; and then in a way they are liberated to do whatever the hell they want to do and not feel any pressure. Because what’s left to lose.
So I think that was hugely formative, and then that it happened twice – I think going into season 3, it’s all guns blazing. And also, he’s learned, having been at the top for the brief period. He learned now how much more difficult it is; and he severely overestimated his own abilities, and he didn’t take into account the fact that when you’re the “King of Gotham” you have a giant, giant target on your back in a way that you never did before. I think that’s the most valuable lesson that he learned this season; and then going forward, I think we’re watching his transformation from someone who’s finding their way in this world to someone who now has the wherewithal and the knowledge to basically, kick ass and take names. And not fear the repercussions because, again, having lost all the love in his life, going forward, he’s just going to be completely unhinged – which I’m really excited about!
Esw: So Gotham is obviously a very villain-heavy show, and we know many of Batman’s villains are way ahead of him in development – he’s still Bruce; he’s still young. How do you think this will affect the future seasons in the show, or how do you think you’d like to see that happen? Do you think it will shift to being a more heroic focus as Bruce matures?
Rlt: I don’t know; I think our show is about how the city corrupts. Bruce Wayne – Batman – comes from one of the most corrupted acts that could ever happen, one of the most horrific acts; the execution of his parents in front of him. And I could see heroic moments coming through, because obviously you need a balance between the light and the dark, but at the same time, I just think it’s so much more interesting seeing even someone as virtuous and good-hearted as Bruce Wayne – seeing him get swept up into, or sucked down into, the morass of Gotham City and its questionable moral fiber as a city; I think that’s ultimately what’s really interesting to me. And I just think that the villains are where it’s at.
Also, going forward, what I find most interesting, as someone who is a fan of the Batman world, and what I think our show does very well, is show how all of these characters interact, and come in and out of each other’s lives. It’s like seeing how the Penguin’s and Gordon’s connection evolves over time, and also eventually, I’m sure, Bruce Wayne is going to come into Penguin’s life, and all of the other characters’ lives. I love that alliances are formed and then broken; and the re-formed with someone else; some other canon character. I just think that’s fascinating.
Esw: I’ve heard Gotham compared to a soap opera, and it’s not too far off!
Rlt: Yeah, except we’ve got monsters and bazookas; it’s As The Gotham Turns.
Esw: So what experiences have you had working with the other Gotham actors? Do you have any fun stories, or any stories about having to work with actors that then the Penguin kills?
Rlt: Yeah! Well we get along, as a cast, just smashingly. In fact, early on in the first season, Ben McKenzie had a barbeque; and all the cast members came, and we were all there having fun, dancing, and drinking, and at one point I said to Ben, because this is my first rodeo as it were, and he’s been doing this for longer than I have in a big way; I said to him, pointing at everyone having a ball, “Dude, is this normal? Do casts get along like this? Because I’ve guested on shows, and you can definitely feel the vibe, and it’s not this.” And he said immediately, “Nope. This is not normal. God willing, we can keep this going for the rest of our run,” because it just makes the environment more pleasant, and we all just truly have love for everyone, and it’s so nice. It’s all I’ve ever wanted in a job.
Esw: That seems to come through the social media where I’ve seen you and Cory and Ben and everyone interacting; seeing everyone talking to each other on Twitter and wherever else.
Rlt: That’s so nice to hear. And the other thing too is that we’re from all over the place, and everyone’s had such different experiences growing up; and the fact that I can, you know, meet Sean Pertwee, who could not have been from a more different place than me, and have had a more different childhood than I did – and yet, he’s now one of my very best friends. And I just love it, that people can come together and find – in this show, we found a community, which is really great.
So then on the other hand, people have asked me, “What’s the hardest thing about Gotham?” and honestly, it is when a main character dies. And especially if I have to do it. It’s one thing if it’s a movie or a play, because that’s such a contained work. You know when someone’s going; you know the whole thing is going to be over in two-and-a-half hours anyway. It’s not as cathartic as when you’re on a television show. You really do feel that loss. Like when Carole Kane’s character is killed. It was honestly devastating for everybody. It was like, “Oh, God, she’s not going to be here.” Even though she wasn’t there all the time to begin with, it was the loss of that potential for her to be there. I can’t say enough amazing things about her.
And then of course also the same with Paul Reubens. With both of those characters, it really is devastating. You just keep thinking, “If they had written something different, we could have been working together for years now.” I think that’s the hardest part of the job.
Esw: So what’s been your experience with fans and conventions and this role; do fans ever blur the line and call you the Penguin; or what do you like and dislike about that? Have you had any crazy experiences?
Rlt: I mean, the whole thing is generally pretty crazy. Even if you think just logically, what I do is, I’m an actor. So ideally I would just sort of disappear – Robin Lord Taylor would disappear – and the character would live in people’s imaginations and that would just be it. But you know that’s not how it works. You become public people; and that’s been probably one of the most challenging things about the job. Just going from relative obscurity to being in peoples’ minds and consciousness – that’s definitely been intense.
For the most part, everyone has been incredibly, incredibly nice, and kind. I’ve been doing conventions now for the last two years, and, like, I signed someone’s ankle, and she went and got a tattoo, and that’s kind of crazy. Honestly, the tattoos, I think, are the craziest thing! Someone also tweeted me a photo of their leg, and it’s my giant face on their leg. I find that so unsettling; I mean, compared to most other things. Like, “Oh God, you did that?” You defaced your body with my face.”
Esw: They will never forget you, ever ever!
Rlt: I know. I know; that makes me really uncomfortable! But I will never be forgotten. There’s something to be said for that.
Esw: So are you looking forward to Awesome Con? And do you follow other comics? Do you have a favorite character or storyline, or something you want to see or pick up while you’re at the show?
Rlt: I’m totally psyched. This is going to be super. I’ve never been to Washington for a con before; I’m really excited to see what the vibe is like at Awesome Con. From what I hear, it’s an amazing experience. For me it’s always very strange. Obviously I love all of the other DC Comics properties, especially the ones that are on television, in particular The Flash and Arrow, and Supergirl as well. Because we’re all the Warner Bros. family, and we run into each other at San Diego Comic Con and all these other things. So that’s always really exciting to see those folks.
But then at the same time, with the actors who played characters from my childhood – for example, I was at a convention and I was in the green room, and sitting across the table is Denise Crosby who played Tasha Yar on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and when I was a kid, that was my jam; and it’s always so fun to feel the way that people feel when they come to my line or when they come up to say hello. Everyone’s so sweet and so excited to be there, and then some people are really excited and they can’t speak, and that was me talking to Denise. And that’s someone I grew up watching, and that show was so important to me at the time. So experiences like that – just seeing anyone from something I grew up watching – that’s where I really fan out, for sure.
Esw: I know that you recently made a foray into voice acting in Dishonored 2, and you just wrapped a movie, The Long Home; anything you’d like to share about those or other projects?
Rlt: Well – Dishonored 2 – when they told me that I was going to come in and be part of it, and read, especially, that character, the Outsider, that was amazing. An amazing experience, and also reading all about what the game is going to be like; I don’t think I’ve been this excited for a video game in a long time. The only thing I’m a little worried about is when I get it and I start playing it, I have to hear my own voice… But yeah, that was a brilliant experience. And then The Long Home, I would just encourage everyone to look for it on the festival circuit and show it some love. It’s an independent film, directed by and starring James Franco, with Josh Hutcherson, and Courtney Love, and there are just amazing, amazing people in it. It’s a low-budget, independent movie; so we’re really hoping to get some momentum behind it and I’m just really excited to see what the final product is.
• • • • •
So there you have it, folks. Thank you to Robin Lord Taylor for sharing his time and thoughts with us here at ComicMix!
And until next time, Servo Lectio!
After having had the opportunity to speak with Taylor by phone in the week leading up to Awesome Con in Washington, DC, and to meet him at the Con, I can see where The Penguin’s charm and disarming manner originate; but fortunately for us, and unlike The Penguin, Taylor himself strikes me as a delightful human being; and he has a lot to say about his role in Batman’s Rogues’ Gallery.
Read on below for a most enjoyable interview; or listen here for the audio version.
Esw: Robin, your current role on Gotham is a big part of your career, and The Penguin, as we all know by two seasons in, has been called a “breakout character.” I love the nuances that you bring to the Penguin, who is a mix of pathos and viciousness. Are there any parts of his character that come from you, or that you identify with?
Rlt: Yeah; I mean, the thing that really got me into the human aspect of Oswald was, when I first got the job, I reached out to Geoff Johns, who’s the chief creative officer of DC Comics, and I was like, “Do you know any stories?” Because obviously I’d grown up with Batman, and Batman Returns was huge, and the Adam West series was also huge, but beyond that I really didn’t know very much about the character.
And he found some stories; he found one in particular which was Penguin: Pain and Prejudice; and in that story, they really went into detail about Oswald’s childhood, and how when he was young, he was horrifically bullied. Which is not something that I ever experienced, to that extent; but the fact that he had always felt like an outsider – you know, growing up in a small town in the Midwest, I definitely identified with that feeling. Like, just because you didn’t look like everybody else, or there was something different about you – like in my case, I was just not a “sporty” person, and I basically grew up in Friday Night Lights. So it’s just that feeling of outsider-ness, and also that feeling of being counted out just by things that are out of your control. So that was the first thing I really hooked in to. I was like, “Oh, I understand what this feels like,” and it just made him all the more human for me.
And on top of that, his ambition is something that – you know, obviously I don’t think I share quite the same amount of ambition, in the sense that I, you know, value human life! But out of all of the years of basically being rejected by everyone, and having that feed into his outsized ambition – that was another thing that I totally could identify with and understand.
Esw: I read somewhere that when you did the audition, they didn’t actually tell you it was the Penguin. Do you recall if there were any particular acting choices you made in that audition that still define the character or that rolled over into the actual on-screen character?
Rlt: Yeah; the scene itself that they gave us to audition for was a fake scene – it was not in the pilot at all, and the names were all different. But the scene involved, I believe, the Penguin character was named Paul or something, and he’s having this meeting with a Mafia don, and trying to get this person to do some deal for him. Of course the don is not into it, and that’s when it’s revealed that Paul has had the Mafia don’s daughter kidnapped, and she’s about to be “taken care of” unless he does his bidding.
And in that scene, all of that is the epitome of Oswald, and that ability to sort of play – you know, in the first part of the scene before it’s revealed that he has the daughter kidnapped, he’s very obsequious, and kind of meek, and deferring to the Mafia don; being lower status. And then there’s that switch halfway through where it’s like, “Oh no no no, actually I’m driving the ship right now; I’m steering the ship.” You know, “You’re going to listen to me.” So going from that humble, almost meek, low status attitude that he had, and then immediately switching to be the guy on top; that was something that I think I definitely carried through to the show that we do now.
Esw: Generally, in previous characterizations of The Penguin on screen he’s portrayed in a more cartoonish style. Can you talk about what you did to make him more real in the Gotham show sense, and yet keep him defined as he is in the comics so that he’s still recognizable as the character?
Rlt: First of all, I give so much, if not all credit, to Bruno Heller, and Danny Cannon, and our other producers and writers on the show. It started with Bruno and Danny, this vision and this treatment of the character. It starts with them, and then I step in and we collaborate. Again, going back to what I said before, learning how he was bullied – it was more about finding…you know this is a fantastic world. It’s being able to see this character as an actual person who could exist. Which is actually kind of the allure of Batman itself in the sense that of course it’s still a comic book, and crazy shit happens that would never happen in the real world, but it’s always rooted in the fact that Batman is not supernatural, that Batman is a human being.
And that even though it is this gothic, noir, colorful, crazy world that we inhabit in Gotham City, it’s still all rooted in reality, in the sense that, like, gravity exists, and these are human beings, and there is real pathos behind everyone.
And it’s about justifying every choice that this character makes so that every action he takes, there’s a reason behind it; it’s not just being evil for the sake of being evil. Also what I love about the character is that – at one point in the second season, Galavan is trying to get him to help him get some real estate deal going, and that would require tearing down a big chunk of Gotham City, and Oswald is not into it. He says, “Look, I’m a builder, I’m not a demolition person. I’m not interested in tearing everything down.” He’s interested in controlling everything, but also building alliances and making connections and using that to his advantage. So I guess it would be making sure that everything he does and says comes from a real place – a real desire for Oswald to be – I don’t know if it’s accepted, or feared, or both!
Esw: You mention that Oswald is a builder and has these particular goals. He’s a monster in many ways, but he seems to have his own moral code. How would you define his moral code?
Rlt: I would say: Oswald is all about – do not come for him. If you do, you will pay. He remembers every single slight against him, every person who ever hurt him or tried to hurt him. All that, again, stemming from a childhood where he’s an outcast in so many ways, like being a first generation immigrant, for example, in our show. I guess his moral code is just: “Don’t tread on me.” But that’s the thing – with the exception of the poor fisherman in the pilot, and maybe the guy who delivered the flowers from Maroni – a couple of people who really didn’t deserve what they got – for the most part, everyone whom he attacks, it’s motivated by revenge, and it’s all strategy for Oswald. He is anti-chaos. Chaos is not interesting to him; that’s not a place where he can get the power that he needs to survive. He wants order.
Esw: Anti-chaos. It makes me think that perhaps we’re playing Dungeons & Dragons. He’s a lawful evil – not chaotic at all.
Rlt: Yeah, totally!
Esw: Now in the second season, trying to rule Gotham, Penguin needs some worker-bee villains who will be loyal to him; and then we get Butch’s betrayal in that second season. It’s a very tricky proposition, getting those loyal worker-bees and knowing that he can rely on them. What traits about the character do you think would believably cement a henchman’s loyalty and how do you establish that?
Rlt: In a way, I think even though, you know, he chopped off Butch’s hands, you know, big deal – but even those things have happened, I think that Penguin himself, and it goes back to his anti-chaos attitude, I think he is actually also interested in being loyal to people as well. I think he knows that if you treat people well, you get more from them. You get more loyalty; and ultimately, that can be exploited as well.
You see this very, very clearly in his relationship with Jim Gordon, in the sense that for all intents and purposes they should be arch-enemies. But for some reason, it’s this delicate dance and a push and a pull between the two of them that is important to Oswald. Because that keeps Jim in his world and again, that can be exploited in the future if need be. So I think he does reciprocate loyalty to the people that he is trusting and that’s ultimately how he can get people to join his side.
And also, this goes into – because his actions are justified, and because we understand why he does the things he does, there’s a sympathetic side to this character. And I think that comes through to the other characters as well; in the sense that there’s something enigmatic about him that draws people in.
If I had to root this in the character’s history, I would say that this is something he learned as a survival instinct, when he’s being bullied or when he was being basically tortured by his peers when he was younger. This is what you learn; you learn to ingratiate yourself to people. You make yourself seem more meek and sympathetic, and then eventually they come around, and that’s when you stick the knife in.
Esw: Speaking of that, he’s a pretty dark character, and you seem like a nice guy. Do you have difficulty getting into and out of that character?
Rlt: I really don’t, actually! I know that sounds crazy, but… Look, I’ve never played a character that physically is so different from who I am in real life. And so with the hair, the makeup, the costume – all of those pieces coming together every day that I have to work, is – and this is generally how I work as an actor too – is I generally start from the outside and I go in. I let the physicality and the costuming help me get into character so I’m ready. And also, again, it goes to the sets that we shoot, and the locations that we use. With all of these things, it’s like I’m stepping into Oswald, I’m stepping into Gotham City. And at the end of the day, the nose comes off, and the hair is different, and I take these beautiful suits and I put them back in the closet and then I’m back to me. It’s great to have that physical transformation that gets you into character; and from that it’s generally pretty easy.
Esw: He does have some really cool suits!
Rlt: God, they’re amazing. The sucky thing is they’re not quite my, Robin Lord Taylor’s, style, so it’s not like I could ever really wear them anywhere. But also – as you can probably tell, I’m one of the least confrontational people that ever lived. And so it’s actually therapeutic in a way. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s really fun to step onto the set and step into the character and then all of a sudden I’m the guy who’s pushing everybody’s buttons, and I’m the guy who’s messing with everybody and starting shit. And it’s liberating, and it’s fun in a way.
Esw: I can understand that. So Oswald has been through a huge journey in season 2 – he was on top; he lost his mother; he convinced Gordon to murder somebody; he was messed with by Hugo Strange; he met his father; fell back into murder; now he wants revenge and all of Strange’s monsters are out there, and Mooney is back… Can you talk about how you think season 2 changed him, or what you think he’ll be doing in season 3?
Rlt: I think that in season 2 – it happened twice for him, with the loss of his mother and then the loss of his father – and there’s that lovely speech that Cory Michael Smith as Nygma gave Oswald. It was after his mother died, before he knew his father existed – Nygma says, “You’re free now.” The gist is – and this is a continuing theme throughout our entire show – to love is to be vulnerable. You see throughout the show, characters are falling in love, or they have love in their lives, and then they lose it; and then in a way they are liberated to do whatever the hell they want to do and not feel any pressure. Because what’s left to lose.
So I think that was hugely formative, and then that it happened twice – I think going into season 3, it’s all guns blazing. And also, he’s learned, having been at the top for the brief period. He learned now how much more difficult it is; and he severely overestimated his own abilities, and he didn’t take into account the fact that when you’re the “King of Gotham” you have a giant, giant target on your back in a way that you never did before. I think that’s the most valuable lesson that he learned this season; and then going forward, I think we’re watching his transformation from someone who’s finding their way in this world to someone who now has the wherewithal and the knowledge to basically, kick ass and take names. And not fear the repercussions because, again, having lost all the love in his life, going forward, he’s just going to be completely unhinged – which I’m really excited about!
Esw: So Gotham is obviously a very villain-heavy show, and we know many of Batman’s villains are way ahead of him in development – he’s still Bruce; he’s still young. How do you think this will affect the future seasons in the show, or how do you think you’d like to see that happen? Do you think it will shift to being a more heroic focus as Bruce matures?
Rlt: I don’t know; I think our show is about how the city corrupts. Bruce Wayne – Batman – comes from one of the most corrupted acts that could ever happen, one of the most horrific acts; the execution of his parents in front of him. And I could see heroic moments coming through, because obviously you need a balance between the light and the dark, but at the same time, I just think it’s so much more interesting seeing even someone as virtuous and good-hearted as Bruce Wayne – seeing him get swept up into, or sucked down into, the morass of Gotham City and its questionable moral fiber as a city; I think that’s ultimately what’s really interesting to me. And I just think that the villains are where it’s at.
Also, going forward, what I find most interesting, as someone who is a fan of the Batman world, and what I think our show does very well, is show how all of these characters interact, and come in and out of each other’s lives. It’s like seeing how the Penguin’s and Gordon’s connection evolves over time, and also eventually, I’m sure, Bruce Wayne is going to come into Penguin’s life, and all of the other characters’ lives. I love that alliances are formed and then broken; and the re-formed with someone else; some other canon character. I just think that’s fascinating.
Esw: I’ve heard Gotham compared to a soap opera, and it’s not too far off!
Rlt: Yeah, except we’ve got monsters and bazookas; it’s As The Gotham Turns.
Esw: So what experiences have you had working with the other Gotham actors? Do you have any fun stories, or any stories about having to work with actors that then the Penguin kills?
Rlt: Yeah! Well we get along, as a cast, just smashingly. In fact, early on in the first season, Ben McKenzie had a barbeque; and all the cast members came, and we were all there having fun, dancing, and drinking, and at one point I said to Ben, because this is my first rodeo as it were, and he’s been doing this for longer than I have in a big way; I said to him, pointing at everyone having a ball, “Dude, is this normal? Do casts get along like this? Because I’ve guested on shows, and you can definitely feel the vibe, and it’s not this.” And he said immediately, “Nope. This is not normal. God willing, we can keep this going for the rest of our run,” because it just makes the environment more pleasant, and we all just truly have love for everyone, and it’s so nice. It’s all I’ve ever wanted in a job.
Esw: That seems to come through the social media where I’ve seen you and Cory and Ben and everyone interacting; seeing everyone talking to each other on Twitter and wherever else.
Rlt: That’s so nice to hear. And the other thing too is that we’re from all over the place, and everyone’s had such different experiences growing up; and the fact that I can, you know, meet Sean Pertwee, who could not have been from a more different place than me, and have had a more different childhood than I did – and yet, he’s now one of my very best friends. And I just love it, that people can come together and find – in this show, we found a community, which is really great.
So then on the other hand, people have asked me, “What’s the hardest thing about Gotham?” and honestly, it is when a main character dies. And especially if I have to do it. It’s one thing if it’s a movie or a play, because that’s such a contained work. You know when someone’s going; you know the whole thing is going to be over in two-and-a-half hours anyway. It’s not as cathartic as when you’re on a television show. You really do feel that loss. Like when Carole Kane’s character is killed. It was honestly devastating for everybody. It was like, “Oh, God, she’s not going to be here.” Even though she wasn’t there all the time to begin with, it was the loss of that potential for her to be there. I can’t say enough amazing things about her.
And then of course also the same with Paul Reubens. With both of those characters, it really is devastating. You just keep thinking, “If they had written something different, we could have been working together for years now.” I think that’s the hardest part of the job.
Esw: So what’s been your experience with fans and conventions and this role; do fans ever blur the line and call you the Penguin; or what do you like and dislike about that? Have you had any crazy experiences?
Rlt: I mean, the whole thing is generally pretty crazy. Even if you think just logically, what I do is, I’m an actor. So ideally I would just sort of disappear – Robin Lord Taylor would disappear – and the character would live in people’s imaginations and that would just be it. But you know that’s not how it works. You become public people; and that’s been probably one of the most challenging things about the job. Just going from relative obscurity to being in peoples’ minds and consciousness – that’s definitely been intense.
For the most part, everyone has been incredibly, incredibly nice, and kind. I’ve been doing conventions now for the last two years, and, like, I signed someone’s ankle, and she went and got a tattoo, and that’s kind of crazy. Honestly, the tattoos, I think, are the craziest thing! Someone also tweeted me a photo of their leg, and it’s my giant face on their leg. I find that so unsettling; I mean, compared to most other things. Like, “Oh God, you did that?” You defaced your body with my face.”
Esw: They will never forget you, ever ever!
Rlt: I know. I know; that makes me really uncomfortable! But I will never be forgotten. There’s something to be said for that.
Esw: So are you looking forward to Awesome Con? And do you follow other comics? Do you have a favorite character or storyline, or something you want to see or pick up while you’re at the show?
Rlt: I’m totally psyched. This is going to be super. I’ve never been to Washington for a con before; I’m really excited to see what the vibe is like at Awesome Con. From what I hear, it’s an amazing experience. For me it’s always very strange. Obviously I love all of the other DC Comics properties, especially the ones that are on television, in particular The Flash and Arrow, and Supergirl as well. Because we’re all the Warner Bros. family, and we run into each other at San Diego Comic Con and all these other things. So that’s always really exciting to see those folks.
But then at the same time, with the actors who played characters from my childhood – for example, I was at a convention and I was in the green room, and sitting across the table is Denise Crosby who played Tasha Yar on Star Trek: The Next Generation, and when I was a kid, that was my jam; and it’s always so fun to feel the way that people feel when they come to my line or when they come up to say hello. Everyone’s so sweet and so excited to be there, and then some people are really excited and they can’t speak, and that was me talking to Denise. And that’s someone I grew up watching, and that show was so important to me at the time. So experiences like that – just seeing anyone from something I grew up watching – that’s where I really fan out, for sure.
Esw: I know that you recently made a foray into voice acting in Dishonored 2, and you just wrapped a movie, The Long Home; anything you’d like to share about those or other projects?
Rlt: Well – Dishonored 2 – when they told me that I was going to come in and be part of it, and read, especially, that character, the Outsider, that was amazing. An amazing experience, and also reading all about what the game is going to be like; I don’t think I’ve been this excited for a video game in a long time. The only thing I’m a little worried about is when I get it and I start playing it, I have to hear my own voice… But yeah, that was a brilliant experience. And then The Long Home, I would just encourage everyone to look for it on the festival circuit and show it some love. It’s an independent film, directed by and starring James Franco, with Josh Hutcherson, and Courtney Love, and there are just amazing, amazing people in it. It’s a low-budget, independent movie; so we’re really hoping to get some momentum behind it and I’m just really excited to see what the final product is.
• • • • •
So there you have it, folks. Thank you to Robin Lord Taylor for sharing his time and thoughts with us here at ComicMix!
And until next time, Servo Lectio!
- 6/11/2016
- by Emily S. Whitten
- Comicmix.com
Moving boldly into the realm of original programming in the wake of a successful launch for its (very good) James Franco-Stephen King miniseries 11.22.63, Hulu has snagged The Hunger Games actor Josh Hutcherson for the lead role in comedy pilot Future Man.
Variety says Hutcherson will make the jump from studio blockbusters to the exclusively-streaming series to play Josh Futturman, a lowly janitor and avid videogamer with a destiny.
The series, from the writing duo of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, riffs on Ender’s Game, with Futturman learning that Cybergeddon, the dystopian video game he has mastered, is actually a training exercise. Called upon by characters from the game, who’ve time-traveled back in time in hopes of finding someone who can save humanity from extinction, he’s tasked with “defeating the imminent super-race invasion” – whatever that means.
Hutcherson’s cash-cow Hunger Games franchise finally came to a close last November,...
Variety says Hutcherson will make the jump from studio blockbusters to the exclusively-streaming series to play Josh Futturman, a lowly janitor and avid videogamer with a destiny.
The series, from the writing duo of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, riffs on Ender’s Game, with Futturman learning that Cybergeddon, the dystopian video game he has mastered, is actually a training exercise. Called upon by characters from the game, who’ve time-traveled back in time in hopes of finding someone who can save humanity from extinction, he’s tasked with “defeating the imminent super-race invasion” – whatever that means.
Hutcherson’s cash-cow Hunger Games franchise finally came to a close last November,...
- 2/17/2016
- by Isaac Feldberg
- We Got This Covered
With David and James Franco already on board, The Hollywood Reporter brings word that The Hunger Games and Divergent star Josh Hutcherson is in line to join The Disaster Artist, a making-of story that chronicles the infamous creation of The Room.
Based on Greg Sestero and Tom Bissell’s award-winning non-fiction novel of the same name, James Franco will direct and star in the feature as Tommy Wiseau, the idiosyncratic filmmaker that released cult thriller The Room in 2003, which is held up by many as one of the worst movies of all time. Now, more than a decade later, Franco and Co. are ready to tell the story behind the lens. At the time, Wiseau set out to write, direct and produce an offbeat drama with zero filmmaking experience, and the end result birthed a film that was considered to be so bad it was good.
For the uninitiated, the...
Based on Greg Sestero and Tom Bissell’s award-winning non-fiction novel of the same name, James Franco will direct and star in the feature as Tommy Wiseau, the idiosyncratic filmmaker that released cult thriller The Room in 2003, which is held up by many as one of the worst movies of all time. Now, more than a decade later, Franco and Co. are ready to tell the story behind the lens. At the time, Wiseau set out to write, direct and produce an offbeat drama with zero filmmaking experience, and the end result birthed a film that was considered to be so bad it was good.
For the uninitiated, the...
- 12/7/2015
- by Michael Briers
- We Got This Covered
Josh Hutcherson has a lot of projects coming up, including the last installment of the “Hunger Games” films and James Franco‘s “The Long Home,” but wants nothing more than to star in one particular franchise. “I want to be in ‘Star Wars’ so bad!” Hutcherson told TheWrap in an interview while promoting his new short, “The Rusted.” As for which character he’d like to play, “Luke Skywalker is the obvious choice.” Hutcherson currently has his hands full with three completed movies, one announced film (“Journey 3”), his own production company — where he plans to try his luck with directing...
- 10/23/2015
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
James Franco has signed on to adapt the murder mystery novel The Killer Next Door.
The actor will work with Ahna O'Reilly on the project based on the book by Alex Marwood, according to Variety.
The story follows six neighbours who are forced into a shaky alliance with each other, not knowing a murderer is amongst them who will go to any lengths to keep their activities a secret.
There is no word yet on whether Franco will be starring in or directing the film, but it's possible he will fill both roles.
Franco has also been working on The Long Home, an adaption of the William Gay novel starring Josh Hutcherson, which he will produce, direct and star in.
Franco recently appeared in True Story with Jonah Hill, which was released in the Us earlier this year and hits the UK on July 24. Watch a trailer below:...
The actor will work with Ahna O'Reilly on the project based on the book by Alex Marwood, according to Variety.
The story follows six neighbours who are forced into a shaky alliance with each other, not knowing a murderer is amongst them who will go to any lengths to keep their activities a secret.
There is no word yet on whether Franco will be starring in or directing the film, but it's possible he will fill both roles.
Franco has also been working on The Long Home, an adaption of the William Gay novel starring Josh Hutcherson, which he will produce, direct and star in.
Franco recently appeared in True Story with Jonah Hill, which was released in the Us earlier this year and hits the UK on July 24. Watch a trailer below:...
- 7/14/2015
- Digital Spy
At the rate he’s going with the novel adaptations, James Franco will be making movies from health and safety leaflets found in NHS waiting rooms before too long. He has another novel in development, collaborating with Ahna O’Reilly on The Killer Next Door. Alex Marwood’s murder mystery, which hit bookshops last year, finds six seemingly disparate neighbours forced into an uneasy alliance, little realising that one of them is a murderer willing to do anything to keep his secret.It feels a little different from the stories Franco has been adapting of late, which is probably why he and O’Reilly chose it. He’s worked on films based on John Steinbeck and William Faulkner books and William Gay’s coming-of-age tale The Long Home. Chances are he’ll end up directing and potentially starring in the film. O’Reilly has been appeared in several of the...
- 7/14/2015
- EmpireOnline
Ashton Kutcher will appear on an upcoming episode of the ABC reality series “Shark Tank.” The reality competition shows follows entrepreneurs as they present their products to a panel of successful business people in a bid to secure investments. Kutcher will appear as a “guest shark” in at least one episode, according to TVLine. Kutcher, in addition to his acting work, has invested in a number of tech companies in recent years, including video chat software company Skype, temporary lodging site Airbnb and local search and discovery app Foursquare. Also Read: Ashton Kutcher, Josh Hartnett Join James Franco Indie, '...
- 6/22/2015
- by Joe Otterson
- The Wrap
Courtney Love: the unlikeliest comeback story of the year? The Hole frontwoman, onetime critical darling and '90s cultural icon has been racking up an impressive number of acting credits lately, from recurring guest arcs on shows like "Sons of Anarchy," "Revenge" and "Empire" to her new role in the James Franco-directed feature "The Long Home," an adaptation of the 1999 William Gay novel about a young carpenter (Josh Hutcherson) who's contracted to build a honky-tonk by the man who murdered his father ten years earlier (Tim Blake Nelson). As reported yesterday, Love is set to play the wife of Nelson's antagonistic character in the 1940s Tennessee-set drama, which represents her first feature-film credit since -- are you ready? -- the 2002 thriller "Trapped" co-starring Charlize Theron and Kevin Bacon. Could this be the beginning of a new chapter in Love's career? It's a little too early to make any grand pronouncements,...
- 5/6/2015
- by Chris Eggertsen
- Hitfix
James Franco has signed up Ashton Kutcher and Josh Hartnett to his new indie drama The Long Home.
The pair will feature in the movie adaptation of William Gay's novel, directed and produced by Franco, The Wrap reports.
Kutcher and Hartnett join the previously-announced Josh Hutcherson, who will play a youngster in 1940s rural Tennessee and unknowingly ends up working for a man who killed his father ten years previously.
While Kutcher has never worked with Franco before, Hartnett appears alongside him in the forthcoming Wild Horses.
The Long Home.(Image is gonna be leaked anyway, so here it is first. Exclusive)
A photo posted by James Franco (@jamesfrancotv) on May 2, 2015 at 10:34am Pdt
The Long Home doesn't have a release date yet.
Watch Franco and Hartnett as feuding Texas brothers in the trailer for Robert Duvall's Wild Horses below:...
The pair will feature in the movie adaptation of William Gay's novel, directed and produced by Franco, The Wrap reports.
Kutcher and Hartnett join the previously-announced Josh Hutcherson, who will play a youngster in 1940s rural Tennessee and unknowingly ends up working for a man who killed his father ten years previously.
While Kutcher has never worked with Franco before, Hartnett appears alongside him in the forthcoming Wild Horses.
The Long Home.(Image is gonna be leaked anyway, so here it is first. Exclusive)
A photo posted by James Franco (@jamesfrancotv) on May 2, 2015 at 10:34am Pdt
The Long Home doesn't have a release date yet.
Watch Franco and Hartnett as feuding Texas brothers in the trailer for Robert Duvall's Wild Horses below:...
- 5/5/2015
- Digital Spy
Josh Hartnett and Ashton Kutcher have joined James Franco’s indie drama, “The Long Home,” an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap. Other cast members signing on to the film include Zoe Levin, Analeigh Tipton, Scott Haze and Robin Lord-Taylor. Josh Hutcherson, Tim Blake Nelson and Giancarlo Esposito are already enlisted to star in the film. “The Long Home” is based on a novel by William Gay and centers on a young man (Hutcherson) who finds himself working for the very bootlegger who killed his father 10 years earlier. Also Read: 'Hunger Games' Star Josh Hutcherson to Lead James...
- 5/5/2015
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
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