HBO's 'The Penguin' Breaks Viewership Records with Arkham-Focused Episode

Gotham's underworld has never been so captivating. On October 13, 2024, 'The Penguin' episode 4, titled 'Cent'Anni', waddled its way into viewers' hearts and smashed HBO's viewership records. This Colin Farrell-led series is proving that sometimes, the villain's story is just as thrilling as the hero's.

From Sidekick to Star: The Penguin's Rise

Remember 'The Batman' from 2022, where Robert Pattinson donned the cape and cowl? Well, 'The Penguin' picks up right where that left off, kicking off what HBO calls the 'Batman Epic Crime Saga'. But here's the kicker – Batman's taking a backseat, and it's Oswald Cobblepot's time to shine.

Colin Farrell, who first brought Oz to life in 'The Batman', is now front and center. We're talking a full-blown origin story, folks. How does a quirky criminal become Gotham's kingpin? That's the journey we're on, and it's a wild ride.

Arkham Asylum: Where Ratings Go Crazy

Now, let's talk about episode 4, 'Cent'Anni'. This episode took us on a trip down memory lane – or should we say, down the dark corridors of Arkham Asylum? We got a glimpse into Sofia Falcone's past, and let me tell you, it was as unsettling as it was captivating.

The result? A whopping 1.7 million viewers tuned in on the day it aired in the US. That's right, 'The Penguin' just waddled past its own record set by episode 2, which had 1.6 million viewers. And get this – the first episode has now been watched by over 13 million people. Move over, 'The Last of Us', there's a new HBO heavyweight in town!

Gotham's Underworld: A Power Vacuum Waiting to be Filled

Set just a week after 'The Batman', Gotham is still reeling from The Riddler's reign of terror. But that's not all – Carmine Falcone's death has left a massive power vacuum in the criminal underworld. It's like a game of thrones, Gotham style!

On one side, we've got Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, aka The Penguin, teaming up with his new protégé Victor (played by Rhenzy Feliz). On the other, there's Sofia Falcone (brought to life by Cristin Milioti), ready to step into her father's shoes. It's a clash of titans, and we're here for it!

The Hangman's Tale: Arkham's Dark Secrets Revealed

Episode 4 didn't just break records; it broke new ground in storytelling. We finally learned why Sofia Falcone is called "The Hangman". Trust me, it's as creepy as it sounds. This episode peeled back the layers on Arkham Asylum's sinister side and showed us just how ruthless the Falcone family can be.

What's Next for The Penguin?

Mark your calendars, crime saga fans! 'The Penguin' episode 5, 'Homecoming', hits HBO and Max on October 20, 2024.

We're halfway through this crime-filled rollercoaster, with just 8 episodes total this season. The finale is set to air on November 10, 2024. Will Penguin rise to the top of Gotham's underworld? Or will Sofia Falcone prove that crime is a family business?

Don't miss a single episode of this groundbreaking series. It's not just expanding the Batman universe; it's redefining how we see Gotham's villains. Tune in, and remember – in this city, it's the bad guys who often steal the show!