October 24th 2024.
In a recent interview, actor John Turturro opened up about his decision not to reprise his role as gangster Carmine Falcone in the TV spin-off The Penguin, despite receiving praise for his portrayal in the 2022 film The Batman. While scheduling conflicts were initially cited as the reason for his absence, Turturro shared that the depiction of violence towards women in the series played a significant role in his decision.
When The Batman hit theaters, fans were introduced to a cold-blooded and ruthless version of Carmine, who not only committed heinous crimes but also worked as an informant for the police. However, in The Penguin, which has been hailed as one of the best shows of 2024, the character is portrayed by Mark Strong in flashback scenes. Turturro explained that while he was busy with other projects, the portrayal of violence against women in the drama was "not his thing."
According to Turturro, the violence in The Batman was often implied or happened off-screen, which he found scarier and more effective. However, he felt that in The Penguin, the violence towards women was more overt and not something he wanted to be a part of. He also acknowledged that as an actor, he can't do every project he wants to and scheduling conflicts were also a factor in his decision not to return.
In response to Turturro's remarks, The Penguin showrunner Lauren LeFranc expressed her respect for his decision and stated that she only wants people who are genuinely excited about their role in the show. She also praised Mark Strong's performance, stating that he made the character his own while honoring what Turturro had done previously.
Since The Penguin premiered, fans have been comparing Strong's performance to Turturro's, with many expressing their disappointment that the latter couldn't reprise his role. Some even called for a crossover between the two actors, praising Strong for his portrayal but also expressing their desire to see Turturro in the role again.
While Turturro's decision not to return to The Penguin was influenced by the portrayal of violence against women, it's important to note that this issue extends beyond the entertainment industry. In the UK, there are several resources available for victims of domestic violence, including hotlines and support services. These include the National Domestic Abuse Helpline, Women's Aid, the National Centre for Domestic Violence, and Solace. Male victims can also seek help from organizations such as ManKind and the Men's Advice Line.
In conclusion, while Turturro's absence may be disappointing for fans, it's important to respect his decision and remember that the issue of violence towards women is a real and serious problem. The Penguin continues to air on Sky Atlantic and NOW, and fans can catch new episodes every Monday. If you have a celebrity story to share, you can reach out to the entertainment team through various channels. And remember, if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, don't hesitate to call 999 for help.
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