Danny DeVito, is somewhat of a legend in the movie industry. With more than half a century dedicated to acting and creating movies.
Born in November 17, 1944, In Neptune township, New Jersey, Daniel Michael DeVito, Jr., aka Danny Devito Is a versatile actor and comedian, who has put laughter in the mouths of many young children all over the world.The American actor, director, and producer is best known for portraying wisecracking dispatcher Louie DePalma in the television comedy series Taxi (1978–1983). He has also produced several popular films and television series, such as the crime film Pulp Fiction (1994), the legal drama Erin Brockovich (2000), and the television comedy series Reno 911! (2003). Let’s consider DeVito’s life and influence in Hollywood.
Early Life
DeVito was the youngest child of Italian American parents Julia (née Moccello) and Daniel DeVito, Sr., who owned several small businesses, including a candy store and a pool hall. At a diminutive 4 feet, 10 inches tall, DeVito says he longed to be taller as a youth. He recalls, "I was plagued; I couldn't slow-dance with the girls I wanted to because my face would be in a spot where I might be thought of as moving too fast." His height also made him a target for neighborhood bullies. "I took a lot of lumps," DeVito remembers. "But I had a lot of friends who helped me and looked out for me."Although his height did cause him a lot of pain during his younger years, DeVito claimed that his height has never been a disadvantage and that it has helped him stand out.
His Career and Influence
DeVito’s first broke into the acting industry when he starred in the Off-Broadway plays The Man with the Flower in His Mouth (1969) and the film Dreams of Glass (1970). However, his first on screen appearance was not until five years later when he starred in the classic psychological drama One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest in 1975. Although his role in this movie took his career to new heights, he was still amongst those background faces in movies without a name. But his breakout role came three years later, when he landed the part of Louie DePalma, the grumpy, antagonistic cab dispatcher who regularly hurled insults from his dispatcher’s cage in the comedy series Taxi. The show was a commercial success, and DeVito’s performance was well received by critics, effectively launching his career.
After the Taxi series ended, DeVito went on to appear in several other hit movies between 1980-1990 some of which include; the family drama Terms of Endearment, the romantic adventure Romancing the Stone, the dark comedy Ruthless People, and the buddy film Twins.
Director and Producer
Plus his acting career DeVito also made his mark in the film industry by directing big hit movies like “Throw momma from the train”. He also made a huge contribution to the Taxi comedy series by directing a few episodes.
Also Read: Kevin Hart And The Rock Movies Together: Laughing And Rocking
A stand stand up comedian
Apart from directing half a dozen of interesting films. DeVito also does a bit of stand up comedy now and just to give his fans a good laugh.With more than four decades in Hollywood as an actor, director and producer, DeVito has seen the good, the bad and the ugly of the film industry. He tells jokes about his height, encourages people to always be proud of themselves and most importantly take time to be happy.
Also Read: The Dark Knight's Legacy: All Batman Movies In Order From 1989 To 2023: Explore The Complete Chronological List