Proving there’s still life beyond Gotham, Epix has served up a 10-episode, straight-to-series order for Pennyworth, a Batman prequel series primed to explore Alfred’s time as a former SAS soldier in 1960s London.
The Hollywood Reporter has the scoop, stressing that this is not a Gotham spinoff, but rather something else entirely – the only connective tissue here is Gotham showrunner Bruno Heller, who has agreed to develop the origin story for the MGM-owned premium cable network.
Casting is yet to begin, though we understand Sean Pertwee, who plays Alfred Pennyworth on Fox’s flagship Gotham series, won’t be involved, which presumably leaves the door open to cast a new and younger (?) incarnation of Batman’s loyal ally and friend. Jeremy Irons, Michael Gough, Michael Caine, Alan Napier and William Austin have all portrayed the world-famous butler over the years, so we’re curious to see who lands the gig.
The series will revolve around Alfred Pennyworth, the best friend and butler to Bruce Wayne (AKA Batman). The series is not a Gotham spinoff, but rather an entirely new story exploring Alfred’s origins as a former British SAS soldier who forms a secret company and goes to work with Thomas Wayne — Bruce’s billionaire father, in 1960s London.
Also on board for Pennyworth is Danny Cannon, the executive producer responsible for directing Gotham‘s pilot all those years ago. He’ll be tasked with helming the show’s first episode, too, and we should stress that Pennyworth is set in a “completely different universe,” despite Bruno Heller’s involvement.
Meanwhile, in a statement released earlier today, Epix president Michael Wright said:
As genuine fans of these classic DC characters, as well as the incredibly talented Bruno Heller and Danny Cannon, we couldn’t be more excited to make Epix the home of this series. We can’t wait to work with Bruno and Danny — along with Peter Roth, Susan Rovner, Brett Paul and the team at Warner Horizon — on this fantastic origin story.
So, there you have it; an Alfred Pennyworth prequel series is officially a thing that exists. Back in Gotham, Fox brass are currently bracing for season 4’s finale, aptly titled “No Man’s Land,” ahead of its premiere tomorrow, May 17th. Look for the fifth and final season to air sometime next year.
