Did The Penguin just ruin one of Batman’s best storylines? The series cuts short an iconic comic with a massive death in episode 1.
Episode 1 of The Penguin brought fans back into the world of The Batman after an over 2 year wait. The premiere managed to make the familiar world feel new all over again, reintroducing Oz Cobb as the lackey for the Falcone family in the wake of Gotham’s catastrophic flood. This includes a meeting with some of the movers and shakers in the organized criminal underground, such as the highly-anticipated debut of Michael Zegen as Alberto Falcone.
What fans didn’t anticipate is that Michael Zegen’s role in The Penguin would be cut so short. As Oz Cobb breaks into Carmine Falcone’s base in order to steal blackmail following his death during the events of The Batman, he’s confronted by Alberto Falcone. During a long conversation which includes a large amount of mockery aimed at Oz, the Penguin shoots the mobster multiple times in the chest, killing him and any chance fans had at one of the most iconic Batman storylines.
How Alberto Falcone’s Death Effects The Batman’s Sequel
With The Penguin introducing both Sofia and Alberto Falcone into the world of The Batman, many fans were expecting the upcoming sequel film to adapt the beloved storyline of The Long Halloween. This was backed up by confirmation that the film would take place in winter, a key time frame during which the storyline takes place. However, Alberto’s death in episode 1 means any hopes of that storyline being adapted are slim to none.
Yet The Long Halloween may be the least of the implications regarding Alberto Falcone’s death in The Batman universe. The character has always held close ties to his sister Sofia Falcone in the comics, with The Penguin making them even more prominent. His death at the hands of Oz Cobb sets up a tension that’s likely to carry through the rest of the series, potentially teasing a completely original story is in store for fans of the project.
The Penguin is set to drop on HBO on September 19th, 2024. Stay tuned for the latest news regarding Matt Reeves’ The Batman universe and make sure to stay tuned to our YouTube channel for more content.
