Danny DeVito: Biography

Danny DeVito is an American actor, comedian, director and producer whose career has spanned more than five decades. He is known for distinctive comic performances as well as his work behind the camera.

Early Life

Daniel Michael DeVito Jr. was born on 17 November 1944 in Neptune Township, New Jersey. He grew up in a working-class family and attended Oratory Preparatory School before studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.

After completing his training, DeVito worked in theatre and began appearing in off-Broadway productions before moving into film and television.

Film Breakthrough

DeVito gained major attention after appearing as Martini in the 1975 film One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, starring Jack Nicholson.

The film became a major critical and commercial success and won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Taxi

DeVito’s major television breakthrough came with the sitcom Taxi, which ran from 1978 to 1983.

He played Louie De Palma, the sharp-tongued and often unpleasant dispatcher of the Sunshine Cab Company. The performance became one of his most recognisable early roles.

DeVito won both a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award for his work on the series.

Hollywood Career

DeVito went on to become one of Hollywood’s most recognisable character actors. His film credits include Terms of Endearment, Romancing the Stone, Twins, The War of the Roses, Batman Returns and Matilda.

In Batman Returns, he played the villainous Penguin opposite Michael Keaton.

Director and Producer

DeVito has also enjoyed a substantial career behind the camera. He directed films including Throw Momma from the Train, The War of the Roses, Hoffa and Matilda.

As a producer, he was involved with films including Pulp Fiction and Erin Brockovich through his production company Jersey Films.

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

In 2006, DeVito joined the cast of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia as Frank Reynolds.

The role introduced DeVito to a new generation of viewers and became one of his longest-running television performances.

With a career spanning acting, comedy, directing and producing, DeVito remains one of the most recognisable performers of his generation.