Nov 17, 1944
Scorpio
Neptune, NJ
80 years old
N/A
N/A
Movie Actor
Daniel Michael “Danny” DeVito Jr., born on November 17, 1944, is a celebrated American actor, comedian, director, and producer. With a career spanning over five decades, DeVito is renowned for his distinctive voice, short stature, and magnetic screen presence. At 80 years old, he remains an enduring icon in both television and film.
Early Life & Background
Danny DeVito was born in Neptune Township, New Jersey, and raised in Asbury Park. He is the son of Julia DeVito, a homemaker, and Daniel DeVito Sr., a small business owner. Of Italian descent (his family hails from San Fele and Calabria), he was raised in a devout Catholic household and attended Catholic schools during his youth.
Education and Beginnings
After graduating from Oratory Preparatory School in 1962, DeVito studied acting at the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, finishing in 1966. He began his career in theater and small television roles, honing his craft in off-Broadway productions before breaking into Hollywood.
Rise to Fame on Television
DeVito's big break came with his role as the gruff dispatcher Louie De Palma in the sitcom Taxi (1978–1983), a performance that earned him both an Emmy Award and a Golden Globe. Since 2006, he’s played the chaotic and hilarious Frank Reynolds on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, making it one of the longest-running live-action sitcoms in U.S. television history.
Film Career Highlights
Danny DeVito has brought countless memorable characters to life in film. Some of his most iconic roles include:
The Penguin in Batman Returns (1992)
Vincent in Twins (1988) opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger
The voice of Phil in Disney’s Hercules (1997)
Mr. Wormwood in Matilda (1996), which he also directed
Appearances in Terms of Endearment, Get Shorty, Big Fish, Jumanji: The Next Level, and more
His ability to blend humor with emotional depth has made him one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers.
Director & Producer
DeVito is also a talented filmmaker. He made his directorial debut with The Ratings Game (1984), followed by successful films like Throw Momma from the Train, The War of the Roses, and Matilda.
He co-founded the production company Jersey Films, which produced critically acclaimed works including:
Pulp Fiction
Gattaca
Erin Brockovich (nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars)
Reno 911!
Awards & Achievements
Primetime Emmy Award (1981) for Taxi
Golden Globe Award (1980)
Tony Award nomination for The Price on Broadway
Hollywood Walk of Fame star (2011)
Oscar nomination as producer of Erin Brockovich
Personal Life
Danny married actress Rhea Perlman in 1982, after meeting her in 1971. The couple has three children: Lucy, Grace, and Jacob. Though they separated in 2012 and again in 2017, they remain close friends and a supportive family unit.
In recent years, Danny has joyfully embraced being a grandfather, welcoming his first grandchild, Carmine, in July 2024, and a second, Sinclair Lucille, soon after.
Still Going Strong
Even in his 80s, Danny DeVito continues to shine on screen. He’s still a lead on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and recently appeared in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and a 2024 holiday movie A Sudden Case of Christmas, alongside his daughter Lucy.
Legacy
Danny DeVito is more than an actor—he’s a cultural legend. With his unique blend of humor, heart, and hustle, he has shaped modern comedy and storytelling across generations. Whether he’s making us laugh, directing classics, or voicing animated heroes, Danny continues to prove that greatness comes in all sizes.
