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{{Short description|American actor (born 1944)}} {{Short description|American actor (born 1944)}}
{{pp|small=yes}} {{pp|small=yes}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2023}} {{Use mdy dates|date=December 2024}}
{{Infobox person {{Infobox person
| name = Danny DeVito | name = Danny DeVito
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| occupation = {{flatlist| | occupation = {{flatlist|
*Actor *Actor
*comedian
*filmmaker *filmmaker
}} }}
| works = ] | works = ]
| years_active = 1969–present | years_active = 1969–present
| height = 4 ft 10 in<ref>{{cite web|title=Hollywood Heights: The Ups, Downs And In-Betweens|date=December 7, 2012|author=Mondello, Bob|publisher=]|url=https://www.npr.org/2012/12/07/166400760/hollywood-heights-the-ups-downs-and-in-betweens}}</ref> | height = {{height|ft=5}}<ref name="mcmahon">{{cite AV media |last=McMahon |first=Danny |date=November 22, 2024 |title=Danny DeVito: Hollywood's Unlikely Giant |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTluZoSfsHE&t=154s |access-date= |time=2:34–2:39 |quote="You're exactly five feet?" "Mhm."}}</ref>
| spouse = {{marriage|]|28 January 1982|March 2017|end={{abbr|sep.|separated}}}} | spouse = {{marriage|]|January 28, 1982|March 2017|end={{abbr|sep.|separated}}}}
| children = 3, including ] | children = 3, including ]
| footnotes = | footnotes =
}} }}
'''Daniel Michael DeVito Jr.''' (born November 17, 1944) is an American actor and filmmaker. He gained prominence for his portrayal of the taxi dispatcher ] in the television series '']'' (1978–1983), which won him a ] and an ]. He plays ] on the ] sitcom '']'' (2005–present). '''Daniel Michael DeVito Jr.''' (born November 17, 1944) is an American actor and filmmaker. He gained prominence for his portrayal of the taxi dispatcher ] in the television series '']'' (1978–1983), which won him a ] and an ]. He plays ] on the ] sitcom '']'' (2006–present).


He is known for his film roles in '']'' (1975), '']'' (1983), '']'' (1985), '']'' (1986), '']'' (1987), '']'' (1988), '']'' (1989), '']'' (1992), '']'' (1993), '']'' (1994), '']'' (1996), '']'' (1997), '']'' (1999), '']'' (2003), '']'' (2006), '']'' (2010), '']'' (2016), and '']'' (2019). He has voiced roles in such films as '']'' (1997), '']'' (2012), and '']'' (2018). He is known for his film roles in '']'' (1975), '']'' (1983), '']'' (1985), '']'' (1986), '']'' (1987), '']'' (1988), '']'' (1989), '']'' (1992), '']'' (1993), '']'' (1994), '']'' (1996), '']'' (1997), '']'' (1999), '']'' (2003), '']'' (2006), '']'' (2010), '']'' (2016), and '']'' (2019). He has voiced roles in such films as '']'' (1997), '']'' (2012), and '']'' (2018).
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==Early life and education== ==Early life and education==
DeVito was born at ] in ], New Jersey, the son of Daniel DeVito Sr., a small business owner, and Julia DeVito ({{nee}} Moccello).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mikle |first=Jean |title=Jack Nicholson, Danny DeVito childhood homes: see where they grew up at the Shore |url=https://www.app.com/story/entertainment/people/2018/10/11/jack-nicholson-danny-devito-childhood-homes-see-where-they-grew-up-shore/1125105002/ |access-date=2022-08-29 |website=Asbury Park Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Biography - Yahoo! Movies |url=https://movies.yahoo.com/person/danny-devito/biography.html |work=movies.yahoo.com |access-date=2010-02-10 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303083600/http://movies.yahoo.com/person/danny-devito/biography.html |archive-date=2012-03-03 }}</ref> He grew up in a family of five, with his parents and two older sisters.<ref name=Guardian>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito: 'It all worked out for me. Life is good'|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2012/apr/15/danny-devito-interview-sunshine-boys|work=The Guardian|first=Barbara|last=Ellen|date=April 14, 2012}}</ref> He is of ] descent; his family is originally from ], ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/06/29/tl.italian.getaway.devito/ |title=My favorite place: Danny DeVito |first=Dani |last=Shapiro |date=June 29, 2010 |work=CNN |access-date=May 31, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101111000532/http://articles.cnn.com/2010-06-29/travel/tl.italian.getaway.devito_1_sea-view-rooms-restaurant |archive-date=November 11, 2010 }}</ref> as well as from the ] Albanian community of ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Daniel Michael DeVito of Arbëresh descent born on November 17 |url=https://www.ocnal.com/2019/11/daniel-michael-devito-of-arberesh.html |access-date=2022-12-20 |website=Oculus News |date=November 17, 2019 |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=American actor Danny DeVito returns to his Albanian origins and shows how much he adored his grandmother's Georgian dialect |url=https://www.voxnews.al/english/lifestyle/aktori-amerikan-danny-devito-i-kthehet-origjines-shqiptare-dhe-tregon--i27772 |access-date=2022-12-20 |website=Vox News}}</ref> He was raised in ]. He lived a few miles away from the original ] location and would eat there frequently, which would inspire him to become the sub shop's first celebrity spokesman in a line of commercials that began to air in September 2022.<ref>Shaw, David. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070404023422/http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Profiles/People_Profile/0,2540,8,00.html |date=2007-04-04 }}, '']'' profile, accessed May 2, 2007. "Danny DeVito was born in 1944 in the shore town of Neptune, New Jersey—hence the name of his production company—and raised in neighboring Asbury Park, the youngest of five children (two of whom died before he was born)."</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marketingdive.com/news/campaign-trail-jersey-mikes-subs-danny-devito-authenticity/632849/|title=Campaign Trail: Jersey Mike's Subs serves up authenticity with Danny DeVito|website=Marketing Dive}}</ref> DeVito was born at ] in ], New Jersey, the son of Daniel DeVito Sr., a small business owner, and Julia DeVito ({{nee}} Moccello).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mikle |first=Jean |title=Jack Nicholson, Danny DeVito childhood homes: see where they grew up at the Shore |url=https://www.app.com/story/entertainment/people/2018/10/11/jack-nicholson-danny-devito-childhood-homes-see-where-they-grew-up-shore/1125105002/ |access-date=August 29, 2022 |website=Asbury Park Press |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Biography - Yahoo! Movies |url=https://movies.yahoo.com/person/danny-devito/biography.html |work=movies.yahoo.com |access-date=February 10, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303083600/http://movies.yahoo.com/person/danny-devito/biography.html |archive-date=March 3, 2012 }}</ref> He grew up in a family of five, with his parents and two older sisters.<ref name=Guardian>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito: 'It all worked out for me. Life is good'|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2012/apr/15/danny-devito-interview-sunshine-boys|work=The Guardian|first=Barbara|last=Ellen|date=April 14, 2012}}</ref> He is of ] descent; his family is originally from ], ],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://edition.cnn.com/2010/TRAVEL/06/29/tl.italian.getaway.devito/ |title=My favorite place: Danny DeVito |first=Dani |last=Shapiro |date=June 29, 2010 |work=CNN |access-date=May 31, 2012 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101111000532/http://articles.cnn.com/2010-06-29/travel/tl.italian.getaway.devito_1_sea-view-rooms-restaurant |archive-date=November 11, 2010 }}</ref> as well as from the ] Albanian community of ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Daniel Michael DeVito of Arbëresh descent born on November 17 |url=https://www.ocnal.com/2019/11/daniel-michael-devito-of-arberesh.html |access-date=December 20, 2022 |website=Oculus News |date=November 17, 2019 |language=en-gb}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=American actor Danny DeVito returns to his Albanian origins and shows how much he adored his grandmother's Georgian dialect |url=https://www.voxnews.al/english/lifestyle/aktori-amerikan-danny-devito-i-kthehet-origjines-shqiptare-dhe-tregon--i27772 |access-date=December 20, 2022 |website=Vox News}}</ref> He was raised in ]. He lived a few miles away from the original ] location and would eat there frequently, which would inspire him to become the sub shop's first celebrity spokesman in a line of commercials that began to air in September 2022.<ref>Shaw, David. {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070404023422/http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Profiles/People_Profile/0,2540,8,00.html |date=April 4, 2007 }}, '']'' profile, accessed May 2, 2007. "Danny DeVito was born in 1944 in the shore town of Neptune, New Jersey—hence the name of his production company—and raised in neighboring Asbury Park, the youngest of five children (two of whom died before he was born)."</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marketingdive.com/news/campaign-trail-jersey-mikes-subs-danny-devito-authenticity/632849/|title=Campaign Trail: Jersey Mike's Subs serves up authenticity with Danny DeVito|website=Marketing Dive}}</ref>


DeVito was raised as a Catholic. When he was 14, he persuaded his father to send him to boarding school to "keep him out of trouble",<ref name="Guardian" /> and graduated from ] in ], in 1962. While working as a beautician at his sister's salon, his search for a professional makeup instructor led him to the ],<ref>{{Citation|title=Danny DeVito on how beauty school led him to acting - EMMYTVLEGENDS.ORG|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9J7SjQwq9E| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/n9J7SjQwq9E| archive-date=2021-12-11 | url-status=live|language=en|access-date=2021-03-26}}{{cbignore}}</ref> where he graduated in 1966. In his early theater days, he performed with the Colonnades Theater Lab at the ] in ]. Along with his future wife ], he appeared in plays produced by the ]. DeVito was raised as a Catholic. When he was 14, he persuaded his father to send him to boarding school to "keep him out of trouble",<ref name="Guardian" /> and graduated from ] in ], in 1962. While working as a beautician at his sister's salon, his search for a professional makeup instructor led him to the ],<ref>{{Citation|title=Danny DeVito on how beauty school led him to acting - EMMYTVLEGENDS.ORG|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9J7SjQwq9E| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211211/n9J7SjQwq9E| archive-date=December 11, 2021 | url-status=live|language=en|access-date=March 26, 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref> where he graduated in 1966. In his early theater days, he performed with the Colonnades Theater Lab at the ] in ]. Along with his future wife ], he appeared in plays produced by the ].


==Career== ==Career==
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In 1997, he played Deck Shifflet in the legal thriller '']'' starring ] and ] as well as Sid Hudgens, editor of a sleazy ] called ''Hush-Hush'', who gets tips ahead of time of celebrity arrests in the ] thriller '']'' with ], ], and ], the latter of which was nominated for the ]. That same year he also voiced ] in the ] '']'' (1997). Leonard Klady of '']'' praised the voice performances writing, "As in '']'', the melding of character animation with the screen personae of the actors voicing the roles provides forceful and amusing entertainment, particularly in DeVito's turn as a physical trainer and the acid wit ] brings to his villainous role."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://variety.com/1997/film/reviews/hercules-2-1200450181/|title= Hercules|website= Variety|date= June 16, 1997|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> In 1997, he played Deck Shifflet in the legal thriller '']'' starring ] and ] as well as Sid Hudgens, editor of a sleazy ] called ''Hush-Hush'', who gets tips ahead of time of celebrity arrests in the ] thriller '']'' with ], ], and ], the latter of which was nominated for the ]. That same year he also voiced ] in the ] '']'' (1997). Leonard Klady of '']'' praised the voice performances writing, "As in '']'', the melding of character animation with the screen personae of the actors voicing the roles provides forceful and amusing entertainment, particularly in DeVito's turn as a physical trainer and the acid wit ] brings to his villainous role."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://variety.com/1997/film/reviews/hercules-2-1200450181/|title= Hercules|website= Variety|date= June 16, 1997|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref>


He starred in '']'' (1988) alongside ] and ], reunited with Kevin Spacey in '']'' (1999), and hosted the last '']'' episode before the year 2000. In 1999, he produced and co-starred in the biographical drama film '']'', a film about the unusual life of his former ''Taxi'' co-star ], played in the film by ]. He also played Dr. Hornicker in the ] directed '']'' (1999) starring ]. He continued to take roles in comedy films such as '']'' (2000), '']'' (2000), '']'' (2001), '']'' (2002), '']'' (2003), and '']'' (2005).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Director&id=dannydevito.htm |title=Danny DeVito Movie Box Office Results |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=2010-02-10}}</ref> He also acted in the drama films '']'' (2001) and '']'' (2004). He earned a 2004 ] nomination for his role of a stripper in the ] sitcom '']'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emmys.com/celebrities/danny-devito|title=Danny DeVito|publisher=]}}</ref> He starred in '']'' (1988) alongside ] and ], reunited with Kevin Spacey in '']'' (1999), and hosted the last '']'' episode before the year 2000. In 1999, he produced and co-starred in the biographical drama film '']'', a film about the unusual life of his former ''Taxi'' co-star ], played in the film by ]. He also played Dr. Hornicker in the ] directed '']'' (1999) starring ]. He continued to take roles in comedy films such as '']'' (2000), '']'' (2000), '']'' (2001), '']'' (2002), '']'' (2003), and '']'' (2005).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxofficemojo.com/people/chart/?view=Director&id=dannydevito.htm |title=Danny DeVito Movie Box Office Results |publisher=Box Office Mojo |access-date=February 10, 2010}}</ref> He also acted in the drama films '']'' (2001) and '']'' (2004). He earned a 2004 ] nomination for his role of a stripper in the ] sitcom '']'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.emmys.com/celebrities/danny-devito|title=Danny DeVito|publisher=]}}</ref>


]'' cast mates ] and ] at the ceremony for DeVito on August 18, 2011]] ]'' cast mates ] and ] at the ceremony for DeVito on August 18, 2011]]
In 2006, he joined the cast of the ] / ] ] '']'' as ]. DeVito stars opposite ], ], ], and ]. The character of Frank Reynolds is introduced at the beginning of ]. He received a nomination for the ]. DeVito said of the show "I loved it. It was fucking outrageous just the way they are. I immediately said, ‘Yeah, this is an amazing show."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/how-danny-devito-joined-its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia/|title= The story of how Danny DeVito joined 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia'|website= Far Out|date= December 22, 2022|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> Also in 2006 he starred opposite ] in the Christmas comedy film '']''. In 2006, he joined the cast of the ] / ] ] '']'' as ]. DeVito stars opposite ], ], ], and ]. The character of Frank Reynolds is introduced at the beginning of ]. He received a nomination for the ]. DeVito said of the show "I loved it. It was fucking outrageous just the way they are. I immediately said, 'Yeah, this is an amazing show.{{'"}}<ref>{{cite web|url= https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/how-danny-devito-joined-its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia/|title= The story of how Danny DeVito joined 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia'|website= Far Out|date= December 22, 2022|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> Also in 2006 he starred opposite ] in the Christmas comedy film '']''.


DeVito has an interest in documentaries. In 2006 he began a partnership with ]'s company ], for whom he hosts the documentary channel Jersey Docs. He was also interviewed in the documentary ''],'' discussing his interest in and ownership of ]s. DeVito has directed eight short films between 1973 and 2016, five of which were released across 2010 and 2011. These are ''The Sound Sleeper'' (1973), ''Minestrone'' (1975), ''Oh Those Lips'' (2010), ''Evil Eye'' (2010), ''Poison Tongue'' (2011), ''Skin Deep'' (2011), ''Nest of Vipers'' (2011) and ''Curmudgeons'' (2016). In 2011, DeVito received a star on the ] for his work in television.<ref>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito gets star on Hollywood Walk |url=http://ktar.com/category/tv-news-articles/20110819/Danny-DeVito-gets-star-on-Hollywood-Walk/ |agency=] |website=KTAR.com |publisher=Bonneville International |date=August 18, 2011 |access-date=August 19, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001132000/http://ktar.com/category/tv-news-articles/20110819/Danny-DeVito-gets-star-on-Hollywood-Walk/ |archive-date=October 1, 2011 }}</ref> In 2012, he voiced the title character in the animated version of ]' '']''. He appeared in the '']'' "Champions for Earth" tournament advertisement in September 2015. Following the Japanese release of the ] game '']'', dedicated '']'' fans submitted a 40,000-signature petition requesting that DeVito be the English voice actor for the title character. However, he declined to audition for the role, commenting that he was unfamiliar with the franchise.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Pokémon Fans Petitioning to Make Danny DeVito the Voice of Pikachu (He'd Be Perfect)|url = https://www.yahoo.com/tech/pokemon-fans-are-petitioining-to-make-danny-174608577.html|website=]| date=February 2, 2016 |access-date =February 12, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=paleycenter|title = Paley Center on Twitter: "Audience Q:Will Danny DeVito voice the Detective Pikachu videogame? Danny says "No" and asks what it is, "What the F is Pokemon?" #PaleyLive|url = https://twitter.com/paleycenter/status/716108571969126407|number=716108571969126407|website=]|access-date = May 2, 2016}}</ref> DeVito has an interest in documentaries. In 2006 he began a partnership with ]'s company ], for whom he hosts the documentary channel Jersey Docs. He was also interviewed in the documentary ''],'' discussing his interest in and ownership of ]s. DeVito has directed eight short films between 1973 and 2016, five of which were released across 2010 and 2011. These are ''The Sound Sleeper'' (1973), ''Minestrone'' (1975), ''Oh Those Lips'' (2010), ''Evil Eye'' (2010), ''Poison Tongue'' (2011), ''Skin Deep'' (2011), ''Nest of Vipers'' (2011) and ''Curmudgeons'' (2016). In 2011, DeVito received a star on the ] for his work in television.<ref>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito gets star on Hollywood Walk |url=http://ktar.com/category/tv-news-articles/20110819/Danny-DeVito-gets-star-on-Hollywood-Walk/ |agency=] |website=KTAR.com |publisher=Bonneville International |date=August 18, 2011 |access-date=August 19, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111001132000/http://ktar.com/category/tv-news-articles/20110819/Danny-DeVito-gets-star-on-Hollywood-Walk/ |archive-date=October 1, 2011 }}</ref> In 2012, he voiced the title character in the animated version of ]' '']''. He appeared in the '']'' "Champions for Earth" tournament advertisement in September 2015. Following the Japanese release of the ] game '']'', dedicated '']'' fans submitted a 40,000-signature petition requesting that DeVito be the English voice actor for the title character. However, he declined to audition for the role, commenting that he was unfamiliar with the franchise.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Pokémon Fans Petitioning to Make Danny DeVito the Voice of Pikachu (He'd Be Perfect)|url = https://www.yahoo.com/tech/pokemon-fans-are-petitioining-to-make-danny-174608577.html|website=]| date=February 2, 2016 |access-date =February 12, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet|user=paleycenter|title = Paley Center on Twitter: "Audience Q:Will Danny DeVito voice the Detective Pikachu videogame? Danny says "No" and asks what it is, "What the F is Pokemon?" #PaleyLive|url = https://twitter.com/paleycenter/status/716108571969126407|number=716108571969126407|website=]|access-date = May 2, 2016}}</ref>


In April 2012, DeVito made his ] acting debut in a revival of the ] play '']'' as Willie Clark, alongside ].<ref name=Esquire /> It previewed at the ] in London from April 27, 2012, opened on May 17, and played a limited 12-week season until July 28.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Sunshine Boys – Reviews|url=http://www.whatsonstage.com/west-end-theatre/reviews/05-2012/the-sunshine-boys_4231.html|publisher=What's On Stage|access-date=April 25, 2014|date=May 18, 2012}}</ref> DeVito played a fictional version of himself in the music video of ]'s song "]" (2014).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1960554/one-direction-steal-my-girl-video-features-danny-devito/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014010630/http://www.mtv.com/news/1960554/one-direction-steal-my-girl-video-features-danny-devito/|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 14, 2014|title=One Direction's 'Steal My Girl' Video Features Danny DeVito... What!?|work=MTV News|access-date=May 7, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop-shop/6281535/one-direction-danny-devito-steal-my-girl-video-photos|title=One Direction's New 'Steal My Girl' Video Will Feature Danny DeVito|date=October 11, 2014|magazine=Billboard|access-date=October 19, 2014}}</ref> He also appeared in the short film '']'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.curmudgeonsfilm.com/|title=Curmudgeons|website=Curmudgeons|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013071615/http://www.curmudgeonsfilm.com/|archive-date=2016-10-13}}</ref> which he also produced and directed. In 2013, he would voice Herb for a third time in the episode "]".{{citation needed|date=May 2024}} DeVito made his ] debut in a ] revival of the ] play '']'' as Gregory Solomon. He acted opposite ], and ]. Marilyn Stasio of '']'' praised DeVito's performance writing, "DeVito, who holds the audience in the palm of his hand, tends to favor the comic side, making an extended meal out of an egg-eating visual gag. But he also draws on down-to-earth Jewish wisdom to keep family hostilities from boiling over and spoiling the financial negotiations".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://variety.com/2017/legit/reviews/the-price-review-mark-ruffalo-broadway-1202009477/|title= Broadway Review: 'The Price' Starring Mark Ruffalo, Tony Shalhoub, Danny DeVito|website= Variety|date= March 17, 2017|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> He went on to be nominated for a ]. The production began preview performances at the ] on February 16, 2017, and opened on March 16 for a limited run-through on May 7. In April 2012, DeVito made his ] acting debut in a revival of the ] play '']'' as Willie Clark, alongside ].<ref name=Esquire /> It previewed at the ] in London from April 27, 2012, opened on May 17, and played a limited 12-week season until July 28.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Sunshine Boys – Reviews|url=http://www.whatsonstage.com/west-end-theatre/reviews/05-2012/the-sunshine-boys_4231.html|publisher=What's On Stage|access-date=April 25, 2014|date=May 18, 2012}}</ref> DeVito played a fictional version of himself in the music video of ]'s song "]" (2014).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1960554/one-direction-steal-my-girl-video-features-danny-devito/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141014010630/http://www.mtv.com/news/1960554/one-direction-steal-my-girl-video-features-danny-devito/|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 14, 2014|title=One Direction's 'Steal My Girl' Video Features Danny DeVito... What!?|work=MTV News|access-date=May 7, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/pop-shop/6281535/one-direction-danny-devito-steal-my-girl-video-photos|title=One Direction's New 'Steal My Girl' Video Will Feature Danny DeVito|date=October 11, 2014|magazine=Billboard|access-date=October 19, 2014}}</ref> He also appeared in the short film '']'',<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.curmudgeonsfilm.com/|title=Curmudgeons|website=Curmudgeons|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013071615/http://www.curmudgeonsfilm.com/|archive-date=October 13, 2016}}</ref> which he also produced and directed. In 2013, he would voice Herb for a third time in the episode "]".{{citation needed|date=May 2024}} DeVito made his ] debut in a ] revival of the ] play '']'' as Gregory Solomon. He acted opposite ], and ]. Marilyn Stasio of '']'' praised DeVito's performance writing, "DeVito, who holds the audience in the palm of his hand, tends to favor the comic side, making an extended meal out of an egg-eating visual gag. But he also draws on down-to-earth Jewish wisdom to keep family hostilities from boiling over and spoiling the financial negotiations".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://variety.com/2017/legit/reviews/the-price-review-mark-ruffalo-broadway-1202009477/|title= Broadway Review: 'The Price' Starring Mark Ruffalo, Tony Shalhoub, Danny DeVito|website= Variety|date= March 17, 2017|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> He went on to be nominated for a ]. The production began preview performances at the ] on February 16, 2017, and opened on March 16 for a limited run-through on May 7.


In 2018 he had a guest starring role in the ] comedy series '']'' acting opposite ] and ]. He also voiced Dorgle in the ] animated film '']'' (2018). The following year in 2019 he reunited with ] playing Max Medici in the live action ] '']'', a remake of the ]. He acted alongside ], ] and ]. He also played Eddie Gilpin in the action comedy film '']'' starring ], ], ] and ]. The film was a box office and critical success. In 2020 he voiced Bob, a stray dog in '']''. In 2021 he played Charlie Goldman the biographical ] drama film '']''. That same year DeVito wrote a 12-page story centered on the ] and ] for the anthology comic ''Gotham City Villains''.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://ew.com/books/danny-devito-explains-why-he-returned-to-the-penguin-for-new-batman-comic/|title=Danny DeVito on why he returned to the Penguin for new Batman comic 'Gotham City Villains'|author=Christian Holub|date=November 30, 2021 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly}}</ref> In 2023 he acted in the Disney horror comedy '']'', ]'s directorial film debut '']'', and the ] animated film '']''. Also in 2023 he returned to Broadway in the ] play '']''. In 2018 he had a guest starring role in the ] comedy series '']'' acting opposite ] and ]. He also voiced Dorgle in the ] animated film '']'' (2018). The following year in 2019 he reunited with ] playing Max Medici in the live action ] '']'', a remake of the ]. He acted alongside ], ] and ]. He also played Eddie Gilpin in the action comedy film '']'' starring ], ], ] and ]. The film was a box office and critical success. In 2020 he voiced Bob, a stray dog in '']''. In 2021 he played Charlie Goldman the biographical ] drama film '']''. That same year DeVito wrote a 12-page story centered on the ] and ] for the anthology comic ''Gotham City Villains''.<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://ew.com/books/danny-devito-explains-why-he-returned-to-the-penguin-for-new-batman-comic/|title=Danny DeVito on why he returned to the Penguin for new Batman comic 'Gotham City Villains'|author=Christian Holub|date=November 30, 2021 |magazine=Entertainment Weekly}}</ref> In 2023 he acted in the Disney horror comedy '']'', ]'s directorial film debut '']'', and the ] animated film '']''. Also in 2023 he returned to Broadway in the ] play '']''.


=== Directing === === Directing ===
DeVito made his directorial debut in 1984 with '']''. In 1986, he directed and starred in the ] "The Wedding Ring", a season 2 episode of ]'s anthology series '']'', where his character acquires an engagement ring for his wife (played by DeVito's real-life wife, actress ]). When the ring is slipped on his wife's finger, she is possessed by the ring's former owner, a murderous black widow. In 1987 he made his feature-directing debut with the ] '']'', in which he starred with ] and ].<ref>{{cite web | first=Janet|last=Maslin|author-link=Janet Maslin | title=Throw Momma from the Train| url=https://movies.nytimes.com/movie/review?res=9B0DE5D81139F932A25751C1A961948260 | work=] | date=1987-12-01}}</ref> For his performance he earned a ] nomination.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://goldenglobes.com/winners-nominees/|title= 1988 Golden Globe Awards|website= ]|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> DeVito made his directorial debut in 1984 with '']''. In 1986, he directed and starred in the ] "The Wedding Ring", a season 2 episode of ]'s anthology series '']'', where his character acquires an engagement ring for his wife (played by DeVito's real-life wife, actress ]). When the ring is slipped on his wife's finger, she is possessed by the ring's former owner, a murderous black widow. In 1987 he made his feature-directing debut with the ] '']'', in which he starred with ] and ].<ref>{{cite web | first=Janet|last=Maslin|author-link=Janet Maslin | title=Throw Momma from the Train| url=https://movies.nytimes.com/movie/review?res=9B0DE5D81139F932A25751C1A961948260 | work=] | date=December 1, 1987}}</ref> For his performance he earned a ] nomination.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://goldenglobes.com/winners-nominees/|title= 1988 Golden Globe Awards|website= ]|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref>


DeVito reunited with '']'' co-stars ] and ] in 1989 when he directed and starred alongside them in '']''. The film received critical acclaim. In 1996 he directed '']'' (1996), a film adaptation of ]'s ]. Critic ] of '']'' wrote, "There is never a moment (except toward the happy ending) that we sense DeVito is anything other than quite serious about this material. He goes with Dahl's macabre vision."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/matilda-1996|title= Matilda movie review|website= Rogerebert.com|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> He also served as the Narrator and played the villainous used-car dealer father Harry Wormwood opposite his wife ]. The following year, he was in talks to direct the crime drama '']'' with ] at that time set to star,<ref name=Vulture>{{cite web|last=Bradford|first=Evans|url=https://www.vulture.com/2011/09/the-lost-roles-of-danny-devito.html|title=The Lost Roles of Danny DeVito|website=]|date=September 15, 2011|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> and '']'' with ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael Fleming|url=https://variety.com/1997/voices/columns/devito-checks-into-room-1116679647/|title=DeVito checks into 'Room'|magazine=]|date=December 8, 1997|access-date=May 22, 2024}}</ref> Both projects were eventually realized in the 2020s, but without DeVito's involvement. DeVito reunited with '']'' co-stars ] and ] in 1989 when he directed and starred alongside them in '']''. In 1996 he directed '']'' (1996), a film adaptation of ]'s ]. Critic ] of '']'' wrote, "There is never a moment (except toward the happy ending) that we sense DeVito is anything other than quite serious about this material. He goes with Dahl's macabre vision."<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/matilda-1996|title= Matilda movie review|website= Rogerebert.com|accessdate= November 13, 2023}}</ref> He also served as the Narrator and played the villainous used-car dealer father Harry Wormwood opposite his wife ]. The following year, he was in talks to direct the crime drama '']'' with ] at that time set to star,<ref name=Vulture>{{cite web|last=Bradford|first=Evans|url=https://www.vulture.com/2011/09/the-lost-roles-of-danny-devito.html|title=The Lost Roles of Danny DeVito|website=]|date=September 15, 2011|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> and '']'' with ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael Fleming|url=https://variety.com/1997/voices/columns/devito-checks-into-room-1116679647/|title=DeVito checks into 'Room'|magazine=]|date=December 8, 1997|access-date=May 22, 2024}}</ref> Both projects were eventually realized in the 2020s, but without DeVito's involvement.


In 1998, he committed to star in and direct both the ] film ''Barthe'' for ], about an alien who falls in love,<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Variety Staff|url=https://variety.com/1998/voices/columns/devito-does-double-duty-love-troubles-1117466356/|title=DeVito does double duty; Love troubles|magazine=]|date=January 14, 1998|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref><ref name=Vulture/> and a remake of '']'' for ].<ref>{{cite magazine|author1=Hindes, Andrew|author2=Petrikin, Chris|url=https://variety.com/1998/film/news/d-works-devito-make-dinner-reservations-1117481317/|title=D'works, DeVito make 'Dinner' reservations|magazine=]|date=October 12, 1998|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> In 1999, DeVito was attached to star, direct and produce ]'s ] ''Sugar's Sweet Science of Bruising'' for ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Cox|first=Dan|url=https://variety.com/1999/film/news/nl-offers-sweet-pic-deal-to-keller-1117500084/|title=NL offers 'Sweet' pic deal to Keller|magazine=]|date=May 6, 1999|access-date=May 22, 2024}}</ref><ref name=Vulture/> In 1998, he committed to star in and direct both the ] film ''Barthe'' for ], about an alien who falls in love,<ref>{{cite magazine|author=Variety Staff|url=https://variety.com/1998/voices/columns/devito-does-double-duty-love-troubles-1117466356/|title=DeVito does double duty; Love troubles|magazine=]|date=January 14, 1998|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref><ref name=Vulture/> and a remake of '']'' for ].<ref>{{cite magazine|author1=Hindes, Andrew|author2=Petrikin, Chris|url=https://variety.com/1998/film/news/d-works-devito-make-dinner-reservations-1117481317/|title=D'works, DeVito make 'Dinner' reservations|magazine=]|date=October 12, 1998|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> In 1999, DeVito was attached to star, direct and produce ]'s ] ''Sugar's Sweet Science of Bruising'' for ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Cox|first=Dan|url=https://variety.com/1999/film/news/nl-offers-sweet-pic-deal-to-keller-1117500084/|title=NL offers 'Sweet' pic deal to Keller|magazine=]|date=May 6, 1999|access-date=May 22, 2024}}</ref><ref name=Vulture/>
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He directed the ] for a proposed 2005 ] sitcom ''Queen B'',<ref name=Variety>{{cite web|last=Schneider|first=Michael|title=DeVito king of 'Queen B'|url=https://variety.com/2005/scene/news/devito-king-of-queen-b-1117919178/|work=]|access-date=April 25, 2014|date=March 9, 2005}}</ref> which was not picked up by the network for series. He directed the ] for a proposed 2005 ] sitcom ''Queen B'',<ref name=Variety>{{cite web|last=Schneider|first=Michael|title=DeVito king of 'Queen B'|url=https://variety.com/2005/scene/news/devito-king-of-queen-b-1117919178/|work=]|access-date=April 25, 2014|date=March 9, 2005}}</ref> which was not picked up by the network for series.


In 2009, it was reported that DeVito would direct and produce the ] ''Crazy Eddie'', based on the life of consumer electronics king ], from a script by ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael|url=https://variety.com/2009/film/markets-festivals/danny-devito-crazy-for-eddie-1118001049/|title=Danny Devito crazy for 'Eddie'|magazine=]|date=March 10, 2009|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> However the film could not be made due to a ] deal that was made with Antar.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|url=https://deadline.com/2010/04/how-a-rights-deal-killed-danny-devitos-movie-about-70s-discount-king-crazy-eddie-35498/|title=Why Rights Wrangling Is Crazy Business|website=]|date=April 26, 2010|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> Instead, he pivoted to making the apocalyptic horror thriller ''St. Sebastian'',<ref>{{cite tweet|number=146844524856094721|user=DannyDeVito|title=last five days on St. Sebastian. Having a blast. William Fichtner,Lance Reddick, Constance Zimmer, David Margulies. Fun peeps to work with.|date=14 December 2011}}</ref> which completed post-production in 2012 but to this day has not been released.<ref>{{cite web|author=The Deadline Team|url=https://deadline.com/2012/05/locomotive-selling-danny-devito-directed-thriller-at-cannes-270645/|title=Locomotive Selling Danny DeVito-Directed Thriller At Cannes|website=]|date=May 11, 2012|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> DeVito also worked on the independently financed ''Honeymoon with Dad'', a comedy which never went into production.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Sneider|first=Jeff|url=https://variety.com/2012/film/news/danny-devito-to-direct-honeymoon-exclusive-1118060587/|title=Danny DeVito to direct 'Honeymoon' (EXCLUSIVE)|magazine=]|date=October 10, 2012|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> In 2009, it was reported that DeVito would direct and produce the ] ''Crazy Eddie'', based on the life of consumer electronics king ], from a script by ].<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael|url=https://variety.com/2009/film/markets-festivals/danny-devito-crazy-for-eddie-1118001049/|title=Danny Devito crazy for 'Eddie'|magazine=]|date=March 10, 2009|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> However the film could not be made due to a ] deal that was made with Antar.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|url=https://deadline.com/2010/04/how-a-rights-deal-killed-danny-devitos-movie-about-70s-discount-king-crazy-eddie-35498/|title=Why Rights Wrangling Is Crazy Business|website=]|date=April 26, 2010|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> Instead, he pivoted to making the apocalyptic horror thriller ''St. Sebastian'',<ref>{{cite tweet|number=146844524856094721|user=DannyDeVito|title=last five days on St. Sebastian. Having a blast. William Fichtner,Lance Reddick, Constance Zimmer, David Margulies. Fun peeps to work with.|date=December 14, 2011}}</ref> which completed post-production in 2012 but to this day has not been released.<ref>{{cite web|author=The Deadline Team|url=https://deadline.com/2012/05/locomotive-selling-danny-devito-directed-thriller-at-cannes-270645/|title=Locomotive Selling Danny DeVito-Directed Thriller At Cannes|website=]|date=May 11, 2012|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref> DeVito also worked on the independently financed ''Honeymoon with Dad'', a comedy which never went into production.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Sneider|first=Jeff|url=https://variety.com/2012/film/news/danny-devito-to-direct-honeymoon-exclusive-1118060587/|title=Danny DeVito to direct 'Honeymoon' (EXCLUSIVE)|magazine=]|date=October 10, 2012|access-date=June 24, 2024}}</ref>


DeVito has written a film adaptation of, and been, since 2008, attached to direct '']'' with ], ] and ] starring.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael|url=https://variety.com/2008/film/markets-festivals/devito-to-direct-charlotte-doyle-1117988967/|title=DeVito to direct 'Charlotte Doyle'|magazine=]|date=July 15, 2008|access-date=June 25, 2024}}</ref> The production was halted when Freeman was seriously injured in a car accident two weeks before filming was scheduled to commence.<ref name="contactmusic">{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito wants to cast rising star actress|date=February 24, 2013|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/news/danny-devito-wants-to-cast-rising-star-actress_3521847|publisher=Contactmusic.com|access-date= February 6, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.avi-writer.com/blog/2014/09/movie-option/|title=Movie option|work=Wordcraft|author=Avi|date=September 9, 2014|access-date=November 6, 2015}}</ref> DeVito returned to the subject in February 2013, saying he was looking for another young actress to star in the title role and scouting movie locations in Ireland. Production was expected to restart in July 2014.<ref name="contactmusic"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito on scouting movie locations in Ireland {{!}} Late Late Show|website = ]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoMTYrJYKCU|access-date= August 27, 2013|date= February 24, 2013}}</ref> The release date is still classified as "TBD" without any new information as to whether it will be shot.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.comingsoon.net/movie/the-true-confessions-of-charlotte-doyle|title=The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle - ComingSoon.net|website=ComingSoon.net|language=en-US|access-date=April 13, 2018|archive-date=August 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180818120040/http://www.comingsoon.net/movie/the-true-confessions-of-charlotte-doyle|url-status=dead}}</ref> DeVito has written a film adaptation of, and been, since 2008, attached to direct '']'' with ], ] and ] starring.<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Fleming|first=Michael|url=https://variety.com/2008/film/markets-festivals/devito-to-direct-charlotte-doyle-1117988967/|title=DeVito to direct 'Charlotte Doyle'|magazine=]|date=July 15, 2008|access-date=June 25, 2024}}</ref> The production was halted when Freeman was seriously injured in a car accident two weeks before filming was scheduled to commence.<ref name="contactmusic">{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito wants to cast rising star actress|date=February 24, 2013|url=http://www.contactmusic.com/news/danny-devito-wants-to-cast-rising-star-actress_3521847|publisher=Contactmusic.com|access-date= February 6, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.avi-writer.com/blog/2014/09/movie-option/|title=Movie option|work=Wordcraft|author=Avi|date=September 9, 2014|access-date=November 6, 2015}}</ref> DeVito returned to the subject in February 2013, saying he was looking for another young actress to star in the title role and scouting movie locations in Ireland. Production was expected to restart in July 2014.<ref name="contactmusic"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Danny DeVito on scouting movie locations in Ireland {{!}} Late Late Show|website = ]|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoMTYrJYKCU|access-date= August 27, 2013|date= February 24, 2013}}</ref> The release date is still classified as "TBD" without any new information as to whether it will be shot.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.comingsoon.net/movie/the-true-confessions-of-charlotte-doyle|title=The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle - ComingSoon.net|website=ComingSoon.net|language=en-US|access-date=April 13, 2018|archive-date=August 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180818120040/http://www.comingsoon.net/movie/the-true-confessions-of-charlotte-doyle|url-status=dead}}</ref>
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DeVito founded Jersey Films in 1991,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Guttarado |first1=Andrew |title=Danny DeVito, Never Retire (Bitch) |url=https://www.theringer.com/tv/2019/9/25/20881295/danny-devito-its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia-profile |website=The Ringer|date=September 25, 2019 |access-date=September 26, 2019}}</ref> producing films like '']'' (1994), '']'' (1995), '']'' (2000) (for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture), '']'' (1997), and '']'' (2004). DeVito founded Jersey Films in 1991,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Guttarado |first1=Andrew |title=Danny DeVito, Never Retire (Bitch) |url=https://www.theringer.com/tv/2019/9/25/20881295/danny-devito-its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia-profile |website=The Ringer|date=September 25, 2019 |access-date=September 26, 2019}}</ref> producing films like '']'' (1994), '']'' (1995), '']'' (2000) (for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture), '']'' (1997), and '']'' (2004).


DeVito also produced the ] series '']'', the film spin-off '']'', and the revival on ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2019/12/reno-911-revival-season-7-quibi-1202802492/|title='Reno 911!' Revival Gets Green Light At Quibi|last=Petski|first=Denise|date=2019-12-06|website=Deadline|language=en|access-date=2019-12-07}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://njmonthly.com/articles/jersey-living/sunny-disposition/|title=Danny DeVito Reminisces About Growing Up In New Jersey-www.njmonthly.com|last=Newman|first=Melinda|date=2010-09-13|website=New Jersey Monthly|access-date=2019-12-07}}</ref> DeVito also produced the ] series '']'', the film spin-off '']'', and the revival on ].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://deadline.com/2019/12/reno-911-revival-season-7-quibi-1202802492/|title='Reno 911!' Revival Gets Green Light At Quibi|last=Petski|first=Denise|date=December 6, 2019|website=Deadline|language=en|access-date=December 7, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://njmonthly.com/articles/jersey-living/sunny-disposition/|title=Danny DeVito Reminisces About Growing Up In New Jersey-www.njmonthly.com|last=Newman|first=Melinda|date=September 13, 2010|website=New Jersey Monthly|access-date=December 7, 2019}}</ref>


In 2019, his company Jersey Films optioned the screen rights to make a film of ''Toms River: A Story of Science and Salvation'', by Dan Fagin.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|url=https://deadline.com/2019/06/danny-devito-movie-pulitzer-toms-river-a-story-of-science-and-salvation-dan-fagin-1202627577/|title=Danny DeVito's Jersey 2nd Avenue Options Dan Fagin's Pulitzer-Winning Book 'Toms River: A Story Of Science And Salvation'|website=]|date=June 5, 2019|access-date=June 14, 2024}}</ref> In 2019, his company Jersey Films optioned the screen rights to make a film of ''Toms River: A Story of Science and Salvation'', by Dan Fagin.<ref>{{cite web|last=Fleming|first=Mike Jr.|url=https://deadline.com/2019/06/danny-devito-movie-pulitzer-toms-river-a-story-of-science-and-salvation-dan-fagin-1202627577/|title=Danny DeVito's Jersey 2nd Avenue Options Dan Fagin's Pulitzer-Winning Book 'Toms River: A Story Of Science And Salvation'|website=]|date=June 5, 2019|access-date=June 14, 2024}}</ref>


==Personal life== ==Personal life==
DeVito stands {{height|ft=4|in=10|abbr=no}} tall. His short stature is the result of ], a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Jenkins|first1=Mark|date=September 26, 2013|title=For Richer And For Poorer, But What Of That Vanishing Middle?|url=https://www.npr.org/2013/09/26/224525155/for-richer-and-for-poorer-but-what-of-that-vanishing-middle|access-date=October 5, 2015|website=NPR}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Joseph|first1=Pat|title=Lights, Camera, Economics Robert Reich brings his message to the big screen.|url=http://alumni.berkeley.edu/california-magazine/fall-2013-film-issue/lights-camera-economics|access-date=October 5, 2015|website=Berkeley|date=September 10, 2013}}</ref> DeVito stands {{height|ft=5|abbr=no}} tall.{{r|mcmahon}} His short stature is the result of ], a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Jenkins|first1=Mark|date=September 26, 2013|title=For Richer And For Poorer, But What Of That Vanishing Middle?|url=https://www.npr.org/2013/09/26/224525155/for-richer-and-for-poorer-but-what-of-that-vanishing-middle|access-date=October 5, 2015|website=NPR}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Joseph|first1=Pat|title=Lights, Camera, Economics Robert Reich brings his message to the big screen.|url=http://alumni.berkeley.edu/california-magazine/fall-2013-film-issue/lights-camera-economics|access-date=October 5, 2015|website=Berkeley|date=September 10, 2013}}</ref>


] in 2006]] ] in 2006]]
On January 17, 1971, DeVito met ] when she went to see a friend in the single performance of the play ''The Shrinking Bride'', which featured DeVito.<ref>{{Cite book| author-link=Frank Lovece|first1=Frank | last1=Lovece | first2= Jules | last2= with Franco | title=Hailing Taxi: The Official Book of the Show | year = 1988 | location = New York | publisher = ] / ] | pages = 53, 286 | isbn = 978-0-13-372103-4}}</ref> They moved in together two weeks later<ref>Lovece, pp. 53, 80</ref> and married on January 28, 1982.<ref name=people1983>{{cite news | first= Carol | last= Wallace | date= December 12, 1983 | title= Chalk Up a Successful Marriage for TV's Tart-Tongued Twosome, Danny De Vito and Rhea Perlman | url= http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20086560,00.html | work= ] | access-date= October 8, 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121120221558/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20086560,00.html | archive-date= November 20, 2012 }}</ref> They have three children: ] (born March 11, 1983), Grace Fan DeVito (born March 1985), and Jacob Daniel DeVito (born October 1987).<ref name=etonline2012>{{cite web |url=http://www.etonline.com/news/125687_Danny_DeVito_and_Rhea_Perlman_Separate/index.html |title=Exclusive: Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Separate |work=] |access-date=October 8, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010013810/http://www.etonline.com/news/125687_Danny_DeVito_and_Rhea_Perlman_Separate/index.html |archive-date=October 10, 2012 }}</ref> On January 17, 1971, DeVito met ] when she went to see a friend in the single performance of the play ''The Shrinking Bride'', which featured DeVito.<ref>{{Cite book| author-link=Frank Lovece|first1=Frank | last1=Lovece | first2= Jules | last2= with Franco | title=Hailing Taxi: The Official Book of the Show | year = 1988 | location = New York | publisher = ] / ] | pages = 53, 286 | isbn = 978-0-13-372103-4}}</ref> They moved in together two weeks later<ref>Lovece, pp. 53, 80</ref> and married on January 28, 1982.<ref name=people1983>{{cite news | first= Carol | last= Wallace | date= December 12, 1983 | title= Chalk Up a Successful Marriage for TV's Tart-Tongued Twosome, Danny De Vito and Rhea Perlman | url= http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20086560,00.html | work= ] | access-date= October 8, 2012 | url-status=dead | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121120221558/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20086560,00.html | archive-date= November 20, 2012 }}</ref> They have three children: ] (born March 11, 1983), Grace Fan DeVito (born March 1985), and Jacob Daniel DeVito (born October 1987).<ref name=etonline2012>{{cite web |url=http://www.etonline.com/news/125687_Danny_DeVito_and_Rhea_Perlman_Separate/index.html |title=Exclusive: Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Separate |work=] |access-date=October 8, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121010013810/http://www.etonline.com/news/125687_Danny_DeVito_and_Rhea_Perlman_Separate/index.html |archive-date=October 10, 2012 }}</ref>


Perlman and DeVito have acted alongside each other several times, including in the television show '']'' and the feature film '']'' (where they played Matilda's parents).<ref name=etonline2012 /> They ] in October 2012, after 30 years of marriage and over 40 years together,<ref name=etonline2012 /> then reconciled in March 2013.<ref name = people2013>{{cite news | first= Elizabeth | last= Leonard | date= March 15, 2013 | title= Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Are Back Together | url= http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20682518,00.html| work= ] | access-date= March 16, 2013}}</ref> They separated for a second time in March 2017, but remained on amicable terms and Perlman stated they had no intent of filing for divorce.<ref>{{cite web |title=Why Rhea Perlman won't divorce Danny DeVito|first=Barbara|last= Hoffman |url=https://nypost.com/2018/03/08/why-rhea-perlman-wont-divorce-danny-devito/ |website=New York Post |access-date=July 9, 2018 |date=March 8, 2018}}</ref> In 2019, Perlman told interviewer ] that she and DeVito have become closer friends after their separation than they were in their final years as a couple.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Squires |first1=Bethy |title=Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito May Be Separated, but They're Still Bros |url=https://www.vulture.com/2019/05/rhea-perlman-and-danny-devito-are-still-pals.html |website=Vulture |date=May 10, 2019 |access-date=26 May 2019}}</ref> Perlman and DeVito have acted alongside each other several times, including in the television show '']'' and the feature film '']'' (where they played Matilda's parents).<ref name=etonline2012 /> They ] in October 2012, after 30 years of marriage and over 40 years together,<ref name=etonline2012 /> then reconciled in March 2013.<ref name = people2013>{{cite news | first= Elizabeth | last= Leonard | date= March 15, 2013 | title= Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Are Back Together | url= http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20682518,00.html| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130317092417/http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20682518,00.html| url-status= dead| archive-date= March 17, 2013| work= ] | access-date= March 16, 2013}}</ref> They separated for a second time in March 2017, but remained on amicable terms and Perlman stated they had no intent of filing for divorce.<ref>{{cite web |title=Why Rhea Perlman won't divorce Danny DeVito|first=Barbara|last= Hoffman |url=https://nypost.com/2018/03/08/why-rhea-perlman-wont-divorce-danny-devito/ |website=New York Post |access-date=July 9, 2018 |date=March 8, 2018}}</ref> In 2019, Perlman told interviewer ] that she and DeVito have become closer friends after their separation than they were in their final years as a couple.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Squires |first1=Bethy |title=Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito May Be Separated, but They're Still Bros |url=https://www.vulture.com/2019/05/rhea-perlman-and-danny-devito-are-still-pals.html |website=Vulture |date=May 10, 2019 |access-date=May 26, 2019}}</ref>


DeVito and Perlman resided in a 14,579-square-foot (1,354 m<sup>2</sup>) house in ], that they purchased in 1994, until selling it for US$24 million in April 2015. They also own a ] near ] in Beverly Hills, and a multi-residence compound on Broad Beach in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2015/dirt/real-estalker/danny-devito-rhea-perlman-sell-estate-1201474882/|title=Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Quietly List BevHills Estate|first=Mark|last=David|date=April 21, 2015|work=Variety}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/business/realestate/hot-property/la-fi-hotprop-danny-devito-20150430-story.html|title=Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman sell estate in Beverly Hills|first=Lauren|last=Beale|date=April 30, 2015|work=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> They also frequented a home they owned in ], to get away from ].<ref>Boon, Jon. , ], October 15, 2012. Accessed January 24, 2023. "Danny and Rhea used to stay at his vacation home in Interlaken, New Jersey whenever they wanted a break away from Los Angeles. He never really felt an affinity to California and lived there purely for work reasons."</ref> DeVito and Perlman resided in a 14,579-square-foot (1,354 m<sup>2</sup>) house in ], that they purchased in 1994, until selling it for US$24 million in April 2015. They also own a ] near ] in Beverly Hills, and a multi-residence compound on Broad Beach in ].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://variety.com/2015/dirt/real-estalker/danny-devito-rhea-perlman-sell-estate-1201474882/|title=Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Quietly List BevHills Estate|first=Mark|last=David|date=April 21, 2015|work=Variety}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.latimes.com/business/realestate/hot-property/la-fi-hotprop-danny-devito-20150430-story.html|title=Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman sell estate in Beverly Hills|first=Lauren|last=Beale|date=April 30, 2015|work=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> They also frequented a home they owned in ], to get away from ].<ref>Boon, Jon. , ], October 15, 2012. Accessed January 24, 2023. "Danny and Rhea used to stay at his vacation home in Interlaken, New Jersey whenever they wanted a break away from Los Angeles. He never really felt an affinity to California and lived there purely for work reasons."</ref>


Politically, DeVito is a ] and a staunch supporter of ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/478018-danny-devito-endorses-bernie-sanders-he-is-the-man-to-beat-trump |title=Danny DeVito endorses Bernie Sanders: 'He is the man to beat Trump' |last=Budryk |first=Zack |work=The Hill |date=January 13, 2020 |access-date=August 14, 2021 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200113203420/https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/478018-danny-devito-endorses-bernie-sanders-he-is-the-man-to-beat-trump |archive-date=January 13, 2020 }}</ref> Devito has mentioned being a big fan of singer ]'s various musical projects, being introduced to his work though his son Jacob in 2005.<ref>https://audiophix.com/posts/music-news-danny-devito-mike-patton-always-sunny-podcast</ref> Devito has collaborated with Patton on a music video and has attended several of his concerts, with Perlman also contributing an introductory voiceover to an album by ], one of Patton's bands.<ref>https://music.mxdwn.com/2020/09/25/news/rhea-perlman-will-provide-narration-on-upcoming-re-recording-of-mr-bungles-anarchy-up-your-anus/</ref><ref>https://loudwire.com/danny-devito-mike-patton-acting-tips-mr-bungle-reunion-show/</ref> In 2016, Devito also included music from Patton's band ] on ''It's Always Sunny in Philidalphia.''<ref>https://www.ign.com/articles/2016/02/11/its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia-being-frank-review</ref> DeVito has mentioned being a big fan of singer ]'s various musical projects, being introduced to his work though his son Jacob in 2005.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://audiophix.com/posts/music-news-danny-devito-mike-patton-always-sunny-podcast|title=Music News: Danny DeVito is big buds with Mike Patton and the Always Sunny podcast|date=September 27, 2023|website=AudioPhix}}</ref> DeVito collaborated with Patton on a music video and has attended several of his concerts, with Perlman contributing an introductory voiceover to an album by ], one of Patton's bands.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://music.mxdwn.com/2020/09/25/news/rhea-perlman-will-provide-narration-on-upcoming-re-recording-of-mr-bungles-anarchy-up-your-anus/|title=Rhea Perlman Will Provide Narration on Upcoming Re-Recording of Mr. Bungle's "Anarchy Up Your Anus" -|date=September 25, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://loudwire.com/danny-devito-mike-patton-acting-tips-mr-bungle-reunion-show/|title=Danny DeVito Gave Mike Patton Acting Tips at Mr. Bungle Reunion Show|first=Joe|last=DiVita|date=February 8, 2020|website=Loudwire}}</ref> In 2016, DeVito also included music from Patton's band ] on ''It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2016/02/11/its-always-sunny-in-philadelphia-being-frank-review|title=It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: "Being Frank" Review|first=Matt|last=Fowler|date=February 11, 2016|website=IGN}}</ref>


==Acting credits and accolades== ==Acting credits and accolades==
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Latest revision as of 08:32, 22 December 2024

American actor (born 1944)

Danny DeVito
DeVito in 2013
BornDaniel Michael DeVito Jr.
(1944-11-17) November 17, 1944 (age 80)
Neptune, New Jersey, U.S.
Alma materAmerican Academy of Dramatic Arts
Occupations
  • Actor
  • comedian
  • filmmaker
Years active1969–present
WorksFull list
Height5 ft 0 in (1.52 m)
Spouse Rhea Perlman ​ ​(m. 1982; sep. 2017)
Children3, including Lucy

Daniel Michael DeVito Jr. (born November 17, 1944) is an American actor and filmmaker. He gained prominence for his portrayal of the taxi dispatcher Louie De Palma in the television series Taxi (1978–1983), which won him a Golden Globe Award and an Emmy Award. He plays Frank Reynolds on the FXX sitcom It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2006–present).

He is known for his film roles in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975), Terms of Endearment (1983), Head Office (1985), Ruthless People (1986), Throw Momma from the Train (1987), Twins (1988), The War of the Roses (1989), Batman Returns (1992), Jack the Bear (1993), Junior (1994), Matilda (1996), L.A. Confidential (1997), The Big Kahuna (1999), Big Fish (2003), Deck the Halls (2006), When in Rome (2010), Wiener-Dog (2016), and Jumanji: The Next Level (2019). He has voiced roles in such films as Hercules (1997), The Lorax (2012), and Smallfoot (2018).

DeVito and Michael Shamberg founded Jersey Films. Soon afterwards, Stacey Sher became an equal partner. The production company is known for films such as Pulp Fiction (1994), Garden State (2004), and Freedom Writers (2007). DeVito also owned Jersey Television, which produced the Comedy Central series Reno 911! DeVito and wife Rhea Perlman starred together in his 1996 film Matilda, based on Roald Dahl's children's novel. DeVito was also one of the producers nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture for Erin Brockovich (2000).

From 2012 to 2013 he played Willie Clark in the West End revival of Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys. He made his Broadway debut as Gregory Solomon in the revival of Arthur Miller's The Price (2017), earning a Tony Award nomination for his performance. He returned to Broadway in the Theresa Rebeck play I Need That (2023).

Early life and education

DeVito was born at Raleigh Fitkin-Paul Morgan Memorial Hospital in Neptune Township, New Jersey, the son of Daniel DeVito Sr., a small business owner, and Julia DeVito (née Moccello). He grew up in a family of five, with his parents and two older sisters. He is of Italo-Albanian descent; his family is originally from San Fele, Basilicata, as well as from the Arbëresh Albanian community of Calabria. He was raised in Asbury Park, New Jersey. He lived a few miles away from the original Jersey Mike's location and would eat there frequently, which would inspire him to become the sub shop's first celebrity spokesman in a line of commercials that began to air in September 2022.

DeVito was raised as a Catholic. When he was 14, he persuaded his father to send him to boarding school to "keep him out of trouble", and graduated from Oratory Preparatory School in Summit, New Jersey, in 1962. While working as a beautician at his sister's salon, his search for a professional makeup instructor led him to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where he graduated in 1966. In his early theater days, he performed with the Colonnades Theater Lab at the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center in Waterford, Connecticut. Along with his future wife Rhea Perlman, he appeared in plays produced by the Westbeth Playwrights Feminist Collective.

Career

Acting

DeVito started his career acting off-Broadway in the plays Shoot Anything With Hair That Moves and The Man with the Flower in His Mouth both in 1969. DeVito played Martini in the 1975 film One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest directed by Milos Forman, reprising his role from the 1971 off-Broadway play of the same title. He had his feature film debut in the drama Dreams of Glass (1970). Early film roles include Lady Liberty (1971), Hurry Up, or I'll Be 30 (1973), and Deadly Hero (1975).

In 1977, DeVito played the role of John "John John the Apple" DeAppoliso in the Starsky & Hutch episode "The Collector". DeVito gained fame in 1978 playing Louie De Palma, the short but domineering dispatcher for the fictional Sunshine Cab Company, on the hit TV show Taxi. For his performance he received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series and Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film.

After his breakthrough on the sitcom Taxi, DeVito devoted more effort to a growing successful film career. He took a supporting role as Vernon Dalhart in the James L. Brooks directed comedy-drama Terms of Endearment (1983) acting alongside Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, and Jack Nicholson. The film earned critical acclaim as well as the Academy Award for Best Picture.

The following year he acted in the crime comedy Johnny Dangerously (1984) and took the role as the comic rogue Ralph in the romantic adventure Romancing the Stone (1984), starring Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner; and its sequel, The Jewel of the Nile (1985). In 1986, DeVito starred in Ruthless People with Bette Midler and Judge Reinhold, and also voiced the character Grundle King in My Little Pony: The Movie. In 1987 he acted in director Barry Levinson's Tin Men (1987), as a rival salesman to Richard Dreyfuss' character.

In 1990, he and Rhea Perlman played the couple Vic & Paula, commenting on the state of the environment in The Earth Day Special. The following year he acted in Other People's Money (1991) with Gregory Peck. In 1991 and 1992, DeVito voiced Herb Powell in The Simpsons episodes "Brother, Can You Spare Two Dimes?" and "Oh Brother, Where Art Thou?". In 1992 he portrayed the villain Oswald Cobblepot / The Penguin in director Tim Burton's Batman Returns (1992) acting opposite Michael Keaton, Michelle Pfeiffer and Christopher Walken. That same year he directed and produced the biographical drama film Hoffa (1992) starring Jack Nicholson. He also acted in the film portraying Bobby Ciaro. DeVito also acted opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the comedies Twins (1988) and Junior (1994).

DeVito at San Diego Comic-Con in July 2010

In 1995, DeVito appeared in the gangster comedy Get Shorty. In 1996, he took supporting roles as Swackhammer in the Looney Tunes live-action / animated sports comedy Space Jam and reunited with Tim Burton's science fiction comedy Mars Attacks! starring Jack Nicholson, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Pierce Brosnan, Martin Short, and Natalie Portman.

In 1997, he played Deck Shifflet in the legal thriller The Rainmaker starring Matt Damon and Claire Danes as well as Sid Hudgens, editor of a sleazy tabloid called Hush-Hush, who gets tips ahead of time of celebrity arrests in the neo-noir thriller L.A. Confidential with Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, and Kevin Spacey, the latter of which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture. That same year he also voiced Phil in the Walt Disney Animated film Hercules (1997). Leonard Klady of Variety praised the voice performances writing, "As in Aladdin, the melding of character animation with the screen personae of the actors voicing the roles provides forceful and amusing entertainment, particularly in DeVito's turn as a physical trainer and the acid wit James Woods brings to his villainous role."

He starred in Living Out Loud (1988) alongside Helen Hunt and Queen Latifah, reunited with Kevin Spacey in The Big Kahuna (1999), and hosted the last Saturday Night Live episode before the year 2000. In 1999, he produced and co-starred in the biographical drama film Man on the Moon, a film about the unusual life of his former Taxi co-star Andy Kaufman, played in the film by Jim Carrey. He also played Dr. Hornicker in the Sofia Coppola directed The Virgin Suicides (1999) starring Kirsten Dunst. He continued to take roles in comedy films such as Drowning Mona (2000), Screwed (2000), What's the Worst That Could Happen? (2001), Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002), Anything Else (2003), and Be Cool (2005). He also acted in the drama films Heist (2001) and Big Fish (2004). He earned a 2004 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series nomination for his role of a stripper in the NBC sitcom Friends,

DeVito with It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia cast mates Kaitlin Olson and Rob McElhenney at the ceremony for DeVito on August 18, 2011

In 2006, he joined the cast of the FX / FXX sitcom It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia as Frank Reynolds. DeVito stars opposite Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, Kaitlin Olson, and Charlie Day. The character of Frank Reynolds is introduced at the beginning of Season 2. He received a nomination for the Satellite Award for Best Actor – Musical or Comedy Series. DeVito said of the show "I loved it. It was fucking outrageous just the way they are. I immediately said, 'Yeah, this is an amazing show.'" Also in 2006 he starred opposite Matthew Broderick in the Christmas comedy film Deck the Halls.

DeVito has an interest in documentaries. In 2006 he began a partnership with Morgan Freeman's company ClickStar, for whom he hosts the documentary channel Jersey Docs. He was also interviewed in the documentary Revenge of the Electric Car, discussing his interest in and ownership of electric vehicles. DeVito has directed eight short films between 1973 and 2016, five of which were released across 2010 and 2011. These are The Sound Sleeper (1973), Minestrone (1975), Oh Those Lips (2010), Evil Eye (2010), Poison Tongue (2011), Skin Deep (2011), Nest of Vipers (2011) and Curmudgeons (2016). In 2011, DeVito received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his work in television. In 2012, he voiced the title character in the animated version of Dr. Seuss' The Lorax. He appeared in the Angry Birds Friends "Champions for Earth" tournament advertisement in September 2015. Following the Japanese release of the Nintendo 3DS game Detective Pikachu, dedicated Pokémon fans submitted a 40,000-signature petition requesting that DeVito be the English voice actor for the title character. However, he declined to audition for the role, commenting that he was unfamiliar with the franchise.

In April 2012, DeVito made his West End acting debut in a revival of the Neil Simon play The Sunshine Boys as Willie Clark, alongside Richard Griffiths. It previewed at the Savoy Theatre in London from April 27, 2012, opened on May 17, and played a limited 12-week season until July 28. DeVito played a fictional version of himself in the music video of One Direction's song "Steal My Girl" (2014). He also appeared in the short film Curmudgeons, which he also produced and directed. In 2013, he would voice Herb for a third time in the episode "The Changing of the Guardian". DeVito made his Broadway debut in a Roundabout Theatre Company revival of the Arthur Miller play The Price as Gregory Solomon. He acted opposite Mark Ruffalo, and Tony Shalhoub. Marilyn Stasio of Variety praised DeVito's performance writing, "DeVito, who holds the audience in the palm of his hand, tends to favor the comic side, making an extended meal out of an egg-eating visual gag. But he also draws on down-to-earth Jewish wisdom to keep family hostilities from boiling over and spoiling the financial negotiations". He went on to be nominated for a Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play. The production began preview performances at the American Airlines Theatre on February 16, 2017, and opened on March 16 for a limited run-through on May 7.

In 2018 he had a guest starring role in the Netflix comedy series The Kominsky Method acting opposite Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin. He also voiced Dorgle in the Warner Bros. animated film Smallfoot (2018). The following year in 2019 he reunited with Tim Burton playing Max Medici in the live action Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Dumbo, a remake of the 1941 animated film. He acted alongside Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton and Eva Green. He also played Eddie Gilpin in the action comedy film Jumanji: The Next Level starring Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black and Karen Gillan. The film was a box office and critical success. In 2020 he voiced Bob, a stray dog in The One and Only Ivan. In 2021 he played Charlie Goldman the biographical HBO drama film The Survivor. That same year DeVito wrote a 12-page story centered on the Penguin and Catwoman for the anthology comic Gotham City Villains. In 2023 he acted in the Disney horror comedy Haunted Mansion, Chris Pine's directorial film debut Poolman, and the Illumination animated film Migration. Also in 2023 he returned to Broadway in the Theresa Rebeck play I Need That.

Directing

DeVito made his directorial debut in 1984 with The Ratings Game. In 1986, he directed and starred in the black comedy "The Wedding Ring", a season 2 episode of Steven Spielberg's anthology series Amazing Stories, where his character acquires an engagement ring for his wife (played by DeVito's real-life wife, actress Rhea Perlman). When the ring is slipped on his wife's finger, she is possessed by the ring's former owner, a murderous black widow. In 1987 he made his feature-directing debut with the dark comedy Throw Momma from the Train, in which he starred with Billy Crystal and Anne Ramsey. For his performance he earned a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy nomination.

DeVito reunited with Jewel of the Nile co-stars Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner in 1989 when he directed and starred alongside them in The War of the Roses. In 1996 he directed Matilda (1996), a film adaptation of Roald Dahl's 1988 classic children's novel of the same name. Critic Roger Ebert of The Chicago Sun-Times wrote, "There is never a moment (except toward the happy ending) that we sense DeVito is anything other than quite serious about this material. He goes with Dahl's macabre vision." He also served as the Narrator and played the villainous used-car dealer father Harry Wormwood opposite his wife Rhea Perlman. The following year, he was in talks to direct the crime drama The Little Things with Robert De Niro at that time set to star, and The Crowded Room with Leonardo DiCaprio. Both projects were eventually realized in the 2020s, but without DeVito's involvement.

In 1998, he committed to star in and direct both the sci-fi film Barthe for TriStar, about an alien who falls in love, and a remake of The Man Who Came to Dinner for DreamWorks. In 1999, DeVito was attached to star, direct and produce Jason Keller's spec script Sugar's Sweet Science of Bruising for New Line Cinema.

For the next two years, DeVito was attached to film Michael Petroni's Revelations, a "supernatural religious thriller" that was to have starred George Clooney. The project was delayed due to rewrites however, and DeVito instead resurfaced with Death to Smoochy (2002) and Duplex (2003), which he made back-to-back. Before the release of the latter, he agreed to direct a remake of 1942's I Married a Witch for Tom Cruise and Columbia Pictures, announcing to Variety that he hoped to begin production by the end of the year.

Instead of I Married a Witch, he sought to make Trump vs. Wynn as his next directorial project after receiving an offer from HBO. Written by Rick Cleveland, the script chronicles business tycoons Donald Trump and Steve Wynn's competition to build a casino in Atlantic City. DeVito was expected to direct, produce, and star in an unspecified role, but he dropped out after meeting with both figures, who protested the film's production.

He directed the pilot episode for a proposed 2005 Imagine TV sitcom Queen B, which was not picked up by the network for series.

In 2009, it was reported that DeVito would direct and produce the biopic Crazy Eddie, based on the life of consumer electronics king Eddie Antar, from a script by Peter Steinfeld. However the film could not be made due to a life rights deal that was made with Antar. Instead, he pivoted to making the apocalyptic horror thriller St. Sebastian, which completed post-production in 2012 but to this day has not been released. DeVito also worked on the independently financed Honeymoon with Dad, a comedy which never went into production.

DeVito has written a film adaptation of, and been, since 2008, attached to direct The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle with Morgan Freeman, Pierce Brosnan and Saoirse Ronan starring. The production was halted when Freeman was seriously injured in a car accident two weeks before filming was scheduled to commence. DeVito returned to the subject in February 2013, saying he was looking for another young actress to star in the title role and scouting movie locations in Ireland. Production was expected to restart in July 2014. The release date is still classified as "TBD" without any new information as to whether it will be shot.

Producing

DeVito founded Jersey Films in 1991, producing films like Pulp Fiction (1994), Get Shorty (1995), Erin Brockovich (2000) (for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture), Gattaca (1997), and Garden State (2004).

DeVito also produced the Comedy Central series Reno 911!, the film spin-off Reno 911!: Miami, and the revival on Quibi.

In 2019, his company Jersey Films optioned the screen rights to make a film of Toms River: A Story of Science and Salvation, by Dan Fagin.

Personal life

DeVito stands 5 feet 0 inches (1.52 metres) tall. His short stature is the result of multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (Fairbank's disease), a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth.

DeVito with Rhea Perlman in 2006

On January 17, 1971, DeVito met Rhea Perlman when she went to see a friend in the single performance of the play The Shrinking Bride, which featured DeVito. They moved in together two weeks later and married on January 28, 1982. They have three children: Lucy Chet DeVito (born March 11, 1983), Grace Fan DeVito (born March 1985), and Jacob Daniel DeVito (born October 1987).

Perlman and DeVito have acted alongside each other several times, including in the television show Taxi and the feature film Matilda (where they played Matilda's parents). They separated in October 2012, after 30 years of marriage and over 40 years together, then reconciled in March 2013. They separated for a second time in March 2017, but remained on amicable terms and Perlman stated they had no intent of filing for divorce. In 2019, Perlman told interviewer Andy Cohen that she and DeVito have become closer friends after their separation than they were in their final years as a couple.

DeVito and Perlman resided in a 14,579-square-foot (1,354 m) house in Beverly Hills, California, that they purchased in 1994, until selling it for US$24 million in April 2015. They also own a bungalow near Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, and a multi-residence compound on Broad Beach in Malibu. They also frequented a home they owned in Interlaken, New Jersey, to get away from Los Angeles.

DeVito has mentioned being a big fan of singer Mike Patton's various musical projects, being introduced to his work though his son Jacob in 2005. DeVito collaborated with Patton on a music video and has attended several of his concerts, with Perlman contributing an introductory voiceover to an album by Mr. Bungle, one of Patton's bands. In 2016, DeVito also included music from Patton's band Faith No More on It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.

Acting credits and accolades

Main articles: Danny DeVito filmography and List of awards and nominations received by Danny DeVito

DeVito has an extensive film career, dating back to the early 1970s.

Selected work:

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External links

Danny DeVito
Films directed
Films produced
Awards for Danny DeVito
Donostia Award
Lifetime Achievement Award at the San Sebastián International Film Festival
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play
1975–2000
2001–2022
Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
1954–1975
1976–2000
2001–present
Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Television
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