By: Renae Richardson
It appears audiences are inching closer to the third installment of the modern comedic reimagining of Jumanji. As the production enters its final phase, Dwayne Johnson took a moment to publicly honor one of Hollywood’s most enduring figures, Danny DeVito, praising him as a valued member of the cast whose depth of experience elevates any project he joins. With February often associated with expressions of appreciation and love, it feels especially fitting to spotlight such visible respect for a man whose decades-long devotion has helped shape the entertainment landscape.
Danny DeVito: Artist Among Artists
Longtime film and television audiences require little introduction to DeVito’s body of work. Whether remembered as the sharp-tongued dispatcher Louie De Palma on “Taxi,” the scheming twin opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Twins,” the darkly comedic son in “Throw Momma from the Train,” the grotesque Penguin in “Batman Returns” starring Michael Keaton, or the irreverent Frank Reynolds in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” DeVito has carved out an unmistakable presence across genres. His performances are distinctive—equal parts comedic timing, theatrical instinct, and fearless character embodiment.
Looking Back
His career dates back to the early 1970s, though he had already been performing on Broadway before his screen breakthrough. As the New Jersey Hall of Fame recounts,
“He landed the role of Martini in a 1971 off-Broadway production of ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’ Four years later, DeVito reprised the role of Martini in the film version of ‘Cuckoo’s Nest,’ a huge hit that swept five Academy Awards, including best picture. It was the first of several films that paired DeVito with his good friend and fellow future New Jersey Hall of Famer Jack Nicholson.”
That pivotal moment marked the beginning of a career now spanning over half a century.
Devito’s Contribution to Jumanji Honored
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Danny DeVito. Image Source: The New York Post
Most recently, DeVito joined Johnson and Kevin Hart for Jumanji 3. As filming wrapped, Johnson took to social media to celebrate his co-star. According to ComingSoon.net, Johnson wrote,
“That’s an official Jumanji wrap on the one and only, Danny DeVito. To work with you and learn from you has been an honor—and to call you my friend will always be a privilege.”
The sentiment underscores not only professional admiration but genuine camaraderie.
Collaborative Gold
It has been nearly a year since production began on this latest chapter of the franchise—a reboot of the beloved 1990s adventure originally led by Robin Williams. While this installment may close a particular chapter, it is unlikely to mark the end of creative collaborations among the ensemble that brought renewed energy to the series. As reported,
Jake Kasdan directs the film, which reunites franchise regulars Kevin Hart, Jack Black, Karen Gillan, and Nick Jonas alongside Johnson.
Worth a Wait
Fans will need to exercise patience a bit longer. Jumanji 3 is slated for release in December 2026. Until then, the anticipation builds—not only for the film itself but also for another opportunity to witness the enduring craft of Danny DeVito, a performer whose legacy continues to unfold.
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