When Was Danny DeVito Born? Uncovering The Birth Date Of A Hollywood Legend

Susie Lakin 18 Aug 2025

Have you ever found yourself wondering about the exact birth date of a truly iconic figure, someone who has graced our screens for decades with a unique charm and unmistakable presence? It's a question many fans have, especially when it comes to actors who seem to have been a part of our lives for so long, their work spanning generations. People often ask, you know, when exactly did this amazing talent come into the world?

Well, when we talk about Danny DeVito, that curiosity is pretty strong. He's an actor, a director, and a producer who has given us so many memorable moments, from the hilarious to the truly intense. He just has a way of making every role his own, a very special kind of energy.

So, if you're curious about when was Danny DeVito born, you're in the right spot. We're going to share that information and also take a quick look at the incredible journey of this beloved star, someone who, apparently, just keeps bringing joy and laughter to us all.

Personal Details and Bio Data
Early Life and Beginnings
Breaking Through: Iconic Roles
Behind the Camera: Directing Ventures
Enduring Presence: Later Career and Cultural Impact
Frequently Asked Questions About Danny DeVito
Conclusion

Personal Details and Bio Data

Here’s a quick look at some key facts about Danny DeVito:

Detail	Information
Full Name	Daniel Michael DeVito Jr.
Date of Birth	November 17, 1944
Place of Birth	Neptune Township, New Jersey, USA
Age (as of 2024)	79 years old
Occupation	Actor, Director, Producer, Comedian
Years Active	1970–present
Spouse	Rhea Perlman (m. 1982; separated)
Children	3

Early Life and Beginnings

Danny DeVito came into the world on November 17, 1944, in Neptune Township, New Jersey. He grew up in a very typical American family, the youngest of five children. His parents, Daniel DeVito Sr. and Julia DeVito, were both Italian-American, and they ran a small business, which, you know, meant he saw a lot of hard work growing up.

He went to Oratory Preparatory School, a boarding school, and later, he pursued his passion for acting. He actually trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, which is a pretty big deal for aspiring performers. It was there, in a way, that he met Rhea Perlman, who would later become his wife and a fellow acting talent.

Before he found fame, Danny DeVito, like many actors, had a lot of different jobs. He worked as a hairdresser for his sister, and he even spent some time as a morgue attendant. These early experiences, you could argue, gave him a pretty unique perspective on life, something that probably shaped his acting style.

Breaking Through: Iconic Roles

Danny DeVito’s career really took off in the 1970s, and he quickly became a recognizable face. His distinct look and powerful acting style made him stand out, and he started getting roles that let him show off his range. He could be funny, he could be intense, and he could be, you know, a bit unsettling sometimes, all at once.

Taxi: A Sitcom Sensation

One of his earliest and most beloved roles was as Louie De Palma in the sitcom "Taxi." This show, which ran from 1978 to 1983, was a huge hit, and Louie was a big reason why. Louie was the grumpy, often mean-spirited dispatcher at the Sunshine Cab Company, but he had a surprising depth to him.

DeVito’s portrayal of Louie earned him an Emmy Award, and it really put him on the map. It showed everyone that he could do comedy brilliantly, making a character who was, you know, pretty unlikable on paper, somehow endearing. He just had a knack for it, making people laugh and, sometimes, even feel a little sorry for the guy.

Film Success: Twins and Beyond

After "Taxi," Danny DeVito made a smooth move into film, starring in a string of successful movies. One of his most famous roles from this period was in the 1988 comedy "Twins," where he played the unlikely twin brother of Arnold Schwarzenegger. This movie was, you know, a massive box office success, and it showcased his comedic timing perfectly.

As we consider Danny DeVito's remarkable career, which, you know, includes iconic roles like his part in "Twins (1988)," it's pretty clear he's been a big name for a long time. People recall their parents introducing them to this movie, which, in a way, just goes to show how much his work has resonated across different age groups. He has a way of connecting with people through his roles, and that movie is a good example of it.

He also appeared in other popular films like "Romancing the Stone" and its sequel "The Jewel of the Nile," showing he could be a romantic lead in his own unique way. He also had a memorable role in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" much earlier, which, you know, really highlighted his dramatic abilities.

Darker Sides: The Penguin in Batman Returns

Danny DeVito has a talent for playing characters who are a bit rough around the edges, or even, you know, downright villainous, but still somehow captivating. His portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot, also known as The Penguin, in Tim Burton’s 1992 film "Batman Returns" is a prime example of this. It was a very different kind of role for him, something that really stretched his acting muscles.

His performance as The Penguin was, to be honest, both grotesque and sympathetic. He brought a lot of layers to the character, making him more than just a simple bad guy. People still talk about that role, you know, wondering about the thoughts on his portrayal. It just goes to show how much of an impact he made, transforming himself for the part in a pretty incredible way.

Behind the Camera: Directing Ventures

Beyond his acting, Danny DeVito has also made a significant mark as a director. He's got a pretty sharp eye for storytelling and a distinct directorial style. His films often blend dark humor with a sense of the absurd, which, you know, is very much his signature.

Some of his notable directing credits include "Matilda," a beloved adaptation of Roald Dahl's book, which he also starred in. He directed "The War of the Roses," a dark comedy starring himself, Michael Douglas, and Kathleen Turner, which, you know, was a pretty big hit. He also helmed "Death to Smoochy," a rather quirky film with Robin Williams and Edward Norton.

His work behind the camera shows another side of his creative talent. He's not just an actor; he's a true filmmaker who understands how to tell a story and, you know, bring a vision to life. It's a testament to his versatility, really.

Enduring Presence: Later Career and Cultural Impact

Even after decades in the business, Danny DeVito remains a very active and beloved figure in entertainment. He has this amazing ability to stay relevant, which, you know, is pretty rare in Hollywood. His presence just adds something special to whatever project he's involved with.

It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: A Cult Classic

One of his most enduring roles in recent times is as Frank Reynolds in the long-running FXX comedy series "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." He joined the show in its second season, and his character, a depraved and often disgusting millionaire, quickly became a fan favorite. It's almost hard to imagine the show without him now.

His work on "Always Sunny" has introduced him to a whole new generation of fans, proving that his humor and acting style are, you know, timeless. He just fits so perfectly into the show's chaotic and dark comedic world. It's pretty impressive how he keeps finding roles that let him shine in such unique ways.

Commercials and Public Appearances

Beyond his film and television work, Danny DeVito has also made a splash in commercials and public appearances. You know, some people were pretty surprised when he started popping up in Jersey Mike's commercials recently. It just goes to show how much he's still a part of the public consciousness.

He has a way of making even a short commercial memorable. His voice, his expressions, they just make you smile. It's pretty clear he's got an enduring appeal that transcends different forms of media, keeping him in the public eye.

His Unique Appeal and Lasting Legacy

Danny DeVito has a truly unique appeal. His physical stature, which, you know, is something people often notice, has never limited his range as an actor. If anything, it has made him even more distinctive and memorable. He just has this incredible stage presence, a very powerful energy that fills any scene he's in.

He has inspired countless memes and fan art, and his personality, both on and off screen, has made him a cultural icon. He's someone who, in a way, just defies categorization. His career shows that talent and charisma are what truly matter, no matter what. He's a real legend, a very special kind of performer. To learn more about his many contributions to film and television, you can check out a reputable film database.

Frequently Asked Questions About Danny DeVito

Here are some common questions people ask about Danny DeVito:

Is Danny DeVito still acting?

Yes, absolutely! Danny DeVito is very much still active in Hollywood. He continues to act in films and television shows, and he also takes on directing and producing roles. He's been consistently working for decades, which, you know, is pretty amazing. You can learn more about his ongoing projects on our site here.

What are some of Danny DeVito's most famous roles?

Danny DeVito has a long list of memorable roles. Some of his most famous include Louie De Palma in the TV series "Taxi," the unlikely twin brother Vincent Benedict in the movie "Twins," and the villainous Penguin in "Batman Returns." More recently, he's widely recognized for playing Frank Reynolds in "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," which, you know, has a huge following.

How old was Danny DeVito when he started acting?

Danny DeVito began his acting career in the early 1970s. Since he was born in 1944, he would have been in his late 20s when he started getting his first roles. He trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, and then, you know, worked his way up, performing in theater before breaking into film and television. You can find more discussions about his early career on our blog.

Conclusion

So, there you have it: Danny DeVito was born on November 17, 1944. This date marks the beginning of a life that has brought so much to the world of entertainment. From his early days in New Jersey to becoming a household name, his journey is pretty inspiring.

His unique talent and enduring appeal have made him a true Hollywood icon. We hope this has answered your question about when was Danny DeVito born and given you a better sense of his incredible career. Why not, you know, watch one of his movies tonight and enjoy his work all over again?

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