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- In the finale of “The Penguin,” Oz Cobb (Colin Farrell) makes a shocking choice.
- Showrunner Lauren LeFranc revealed to Business Insider that there was an atmosphere of dread during the filming of this pivotal scene.
- The HBO series drew inspiration from Italian mafia figures on TikTok.
Caution: Major spoilers for “The Penguin” ahead.
Viewers were left reeling when Oz Cobb (Colin Farrell) took the life of his protégé, Victor Aguilar (Rhenzy Feliz), in the series finale after Victor referred to him as family. This unexpected act shocked many fans.
However, Lauren LeFranc, the showrunner, disclosed to Business Insider that she had always intended for Victor’s demise, describing him as the emotional core of the narrative. She stated that this moment was crucial for illustrating Cobb’s descent into darkness and nihilism.
Cobb’s bleak perspective is evident when he tells Aguilar in episode three: “The world isn’t designed for honest individuals to thrive. That should encapsulate the American dream—a beautiful tale with a happy ending. But that’s not how reality operates.”
This poignant statement encapsulates themes explored in “The Batman,” which serves as a precursor to “The Penguin.” The latter has been well-received by audiences and critics alike, boasting an impressive 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
“The Penguin” Draws Influence from TikTok Mafia Creators
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In episode five, we see Penguin confront rival gangster Taj Maroni after discovering his flashy TikTok videos. LeFranc shared that both she and director Matt Reeves were inspired by younger members of organized crime who flaunt their wealth online through social media platforms like TikTok.
“Matt sent me an article about these young mafiosos showcasing their lavish lifestyles on TikTok,” LeFranc explained. “This concept influenced our portrayal of Taj significantly; it added layers to his character while highlighting generational differences.”
Killing Off Victor Was Always Part of LeFranc’s Vision for ‘The Penguin’
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The character Victor stands apart from other gangsters within the storyline; thus, his death resonates deeply with viewers who have come to know him throughout the season. According to LeFranc, this tragic event marks a significant turning point in Cobbs’ transformation into villainy.
“I’ve always seen Victor as central to our story,” she remarked. “When Oz takes his life away, he effectively destroys what remains of his own humanity and embraces monstrosity without justification—Victor posed no real threat.” She emphasized how heartbreaking it was since Victor genuinely cared about Cobbs before meeting such an untimely end.
“That day on set felt particularly grim; I sensed dread while writing those scenes because I knew they were necessary,” she added thoughtfully.
Penguin Spares Sofia Gigante for Psychological Manipulation Rather Than Mercy
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Sofia Gigante (Cristin Milioti), who played a role leading up to Francis Cobbs’ stroke within Gotham’s criminal underbelly may be surprised viewers when her life is spared at season’s end—she is instead returned back into Arkham Asylum custody.
LeFranc clarified that this act wasn’t one born out compassion but rather psychological torment disguised under mercy since both concepts are intertwined:
I believe he derives satisfaction knowing sending her back there represents something worse than death itself—it embodies her true hell,” said LeFranc.
“He relishes inflicting pain upon her while being aware she’s suffering immensely.”
The complexities between them make moving past their shared history challenging; however if they could reconcile their differences they might form an effective partnership according to LeFrances’ insights regarding future possibilities involving these characters.
The showrunner also mentioned Selina Kyle’s letter revealing familial ties between herself and Sofia while imprisoned at Arkham:
“To me it symbolizes hope—the idea you might connect with family unexpectedly despite previous conflicts or misunderstandings,” concluded LeFrances adding it would be up Matt going forward what direction lies ahead concerning those revelations.”
