Director Reveals Why Batman Is Absent from HBO's 'The Penguin'

Batman is preoccupied with Gotham's chaos following the events of 'The Batman', leaving room for the Penguin's rise.

Matt Reeves, director of 'The Batman', explains that Batman's absence from 'The Penguin' is due to Gotham's ongoing turmoil and his efforts to manage the aftermath.
The series takes place shortly after Gotham's seawall is destroyed, causing widespread chaos and crime throughout the city.
Robert Pattinson's Batman was considered for a cameo in 'The Penguin', but the integration felt unearned according to the show's creators.
The Penguin, portrayed by Colin Farrell, becomes a key figure in Gotham's criminal underworld, setting the stage for future developments in 'The Batman Part II'.
The sequel to 'The Batman', scheduled for release in 2026, will explore how Gotham's new power dynamics influence Batman's role as a hero.