It seems that Josh Gad (best known for voicing Olaf in Frozen and recently playing LeFou in the live-action Beauty and the Beast remake) could be circling the role of The Penguin.
First, major DC film studio executives such as Geoff Johns and Jon Berg started following the actor on various social media platforms, and now comic book film aficionados have even more interesting developments to discuss as today Gad posted the following image on his Twitter account:
— Josh Gad (@joshgad) May 2, 2017
Currently, there is no solo from centered on The Penguin in development, but there are several Bat-related DC projects in development. While The Batman is always a possibility, David Ayer’s spinoff sequel to Suicide Squad titled Gotham City Sirens seems more plausible, as with three females (Harley Quinn, Poison Ivy, and Catwoman) teaming up the studio may want a slimy, male antagonist for the movie.
However, director Matt Reeves is essentially starting over from scratch since coming aboard helming The Batman and may want an iconic villain that has been featured in cinema before (Batman Returns) for the Caped Crusader to go up against. That doesn’t mean he has to be the primary villain, but a recognizable enemy face to get more casual audiences invested and excited in the project.
It’s also worth noting that the role could be for the upcoming DC animated film Batman and Harley Quinn, while it’s possible the character could also feature in the Batgirl and Nightwing movies. It’s hard to say for certain considering that Josh Gad has excelled at both live-action and voiceover performances.
Either way, let us know below in the comments if you would like to see Josh Gad waddle around as The Penguin…
Originally published May 3, 2017. Updated April 16, 2018.
