Danny DeVito, a beloved figure in Hollywood, is currently experiencing a surge in online interest, with over 500 searches per minute. This renewed attention can be attributed to a combination of recent film news, retrospectives on his work, and his involvement in upcoming projects. In this article, we’ll explore why Danny DeVito is back in the spotlight, revisit some of his past work, and discuss the buzz surrounding him in 2024.
A Hollywood Icon with a Legendary Career
Danny DeVito's acting career spans over five decades, and his contributions to film and television have cemented him as one of the most versatile and beloved actors of his generation. Known for his roles in classics like Taxi, Matilda, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, DeVito’s unique blend of humor, charm, and eccentricity has made him a household name.
However, it’s not just his previous work that has people talking. DeVito’s name has been trending recently due to a mix of current events and retrospective discussions about his career, particularly around the 1986 comedy Wise Guys, a film directed by Brian De Palma, and the upcoming sequel to Tim Burton's Beetlejuice, where DeVito is set to make a significant appearance.
Revisiting Wise Guys: A Film De Palma Regrets
One of the reasons Danny DeVito is popping up in conversations is due to renewed discussions surrounding the 1986 comedy Wise Guys. The film, which stars DeVito alongside Joe Piscopo, was directed by renowned filmmaker Brian De Palma, best known for his work in suspense and crime thrillers like Scarface and The Untouchables.
In a recent Cracked article, De Palma expressed regret about making Wise Guys, claiming that the film didn’t turn out the way he had hoped. The comedy, which followed the misadventures of two small-time mobsters, was a departure from De Palma’s usual tone and style, and he has since reflected on how the movie didn’t quite find its footing.
Despite the director’s regrets, many fans and critics have come to appreciate Wise Guys over the years. Another ScreenRant article delves into how the film deserved better than the lukewarm reception it initially received. The piece argues that Wise Guys was ahead of its time in blending mobster tropes with slapstick comedy and that DeVito’s performance, in particular, brought much-needed energy and charisma to the film. While not a box-office hit, Wise Guys has garnered a cult following, with some fans considering it a hidden gem in DeVito’s catalog.
Beetlejuice Sequel Set to Dominate the Box Office
Another major reason Danny DeVito is trending is his involvement in the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel. The original 1988 Beetlejuice, directed by Tim Burton, became an instant cult classic, with DeVito’s longtime collaborator Michael Keaton in the title role. While DeVito didn’t appear in the first film, he has a role in the upcoming sequel, which is already making waves at the box office.
According to Deadline, the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, has already grossed over $42 million on its opening Friday, with projections of surpassing $100 million in total gross. The movie, which stars rising talent Jenna Ortega alongside returning stars like Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, is expected to perform exceptionally well and solidify itself as one of the year’s biggest hits. DeVito’s role in the film, though not widely discussed in detail pre-release, has been a point of curiosity, given his long-standing relationship with Tim Burton.
This renewed excitement surrounding Beetlejuice Beetlejuice has undoubtedly contributed to the surge in searches for Danny DeVito. Fans are eager to see how his character fits into the quirky, supernatural world that made the original film a classic.
Why Danny DeVito Resonates with Audiences
Danny DeVito’s enduring popularity can be attributed to more than just his impressive filmography. The actor has a unique ability to endear himself to audiences with his offbeat humor, self-deprecating charm, and willingness to take on roles that challenge the norms. Whether playing a scheming businessman in Matilda or lending his voice to animated characters like the Lorax, DeVito's career is defined by its variety and his refusal to be typecast.
Moreover, his role on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia as Frank Reynolds has introduced him to a new generation of viewers. His contributions to the show have been pivotal in making it one of the longest-running sitcoms in TV history, further solidifying his status as a pop culture icon.
The Future of Danny DeVito
With Beetlejuice Beetlejuice poised to be a massive box office success and continued discussions around his past work, Danny DeVito shows no signs of slowing down. As trends come and go, DeVito’s name remains a constant presence in the world of entertainment, proving that his mix of comedy, eccentricity, and talent continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
As we look forward to more appearances from DeVito, whether in film or television, it’s clear that his legacy is far from finished. Whether revisiting his work in films like Wise Guys or eagerly anticipating his next role, one thing is for certain: Danny DeVito is here to stay.