The Batman Star on if His Villain Will Get a Penguin-Like Spin-off

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Paul Dano recently talked about the idea of a TV show centered around his character, the Riddler. He discussed what would need to happen creatively for him to consider returning to the role.

Paul Dano on if there could be a show about The Riddler

Paul Dano said he’d be open to playing the Riddler in a TV show, but only if the project was well-made. He explained that he values high-quality work and felt a connection with director Matt Reeves because they both have a perfectionist approach. He’s willing to take on the role as long as they can create something they’re proud of.

Dano described how he related to the character, explaining that, like Bruce Wayne, he was an orphan and experienced a deeply difficult childhood, which clearly affected his mental state. He was particularly drawn to the idea that his character believed he had a connection with Batman, seeing him as someone who understood what he’d been through – a twist he found compelling.

Dano talked about how deeply involved he became with the character, even beyond performing. He explained that he later wrote a six-issue comic book series that delved into the character’s backstory. This comic explores Edward Nashton’s childhood, including becoming an orphan, and reveals his conviction that the Wayne family and Carmine Falcone were responsible for his parents’ deaths.

Dano talked about how he developed the character by adding layers of his own understanding. He described how Nashton, his character, felt a connection to Batman, but that feeling ultimately shattered. As Dano put it, the villain saw himself as similar to the hero and was deeply hurt when that perception changed.

Dano hasn’t confirmed a new series, but he’s definitely open to the idea. He said he’d only move forward if they could create something truly worthwhile, something he and the team would be proud of.

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2026-01-30 09:07