
On January 5, 2025, Colin Farrell added another Golden Globe to his collection, winning Best Male Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series for his remarkable portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot in The Penguin. The series dives deep into the gritty rise of Gotham’s infamous villain, chronicling his climb to the top of the city’s criminal underworld.
Farrell brought his signature charm and humor to his acceptance speech, joking, “No one to thank on this one. I did it all by myself,” before adding with a wink, “Just a raw, pared-down performance.” However, he quickly shifted to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of the makeup and prosthetics team who transformed him into the Penguin.
The transformation process was no small feat—Farrell spent three hours in the makeup chair daily, encased in prosthetics and a bodysuit that left only his hands and feet uncovered. Reflecting on the experience during his speech, he quipped, “All it took was three hours in the chair every morning. I drank black coffee, listened to ’80s music, and became a canvas for that team’s brilliance.” With a smile, he added, “I guess it’s prosthetics from here on out.”
Farrell’s humor aside, his performance in The Penguin has been hailed as one of the most compelling in his career, with critics praising his ability to embody the infamous villain’s complexities. Despite the physical demands of the role, including the weight of the prosthetics and suit, Farrell embraced the challenge, crediting the creative team for bringing his character to life.
As Farrell looks back on his journey with The Penguin, it’s clear that his dedication to his craft—and his ability to balance humor with heartfelt appreciation—continues to solidify his place as one of Hollywood’s finest actors.