Robin Lord Taylor is an American actor known for his portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot, also known as the Penguin, in the television series “Gotham.” Here are ten intriguing facts about Robin Lord Taylor that you may not know
1. Early Life
Robin Lord Taylor was born on June 4, 1978, in Shueyville, Iowa, and grew up in a small town. He discovered his passion for acting at a young age and pursued it throughout his life.
2. Name Change
Before becoming known as Robin Lord Taylor, he initially used his birth name, Robin Taylor. However, he added “Lord” as a tribute to his mother’s maiden name, Lord, after her passing.
3. Theater Background
Taylor has a strong background in theater and studied acting at Northwestern University’s School of Communication. He honed his skills by performing in various stage productions before transitioning to screen acting.
4. Penguin Audition
When auditioning for the role of Oswald Cobblepot in “Gotham,” Taylor initially auditioned for the role of a cop. However, the casting directors saw his potential for the Penguin character and offered him the iconic role.
5. Physical Transformation
To portray the Penguin, Taylor underwent a significant physical transformation. He gained weight, worked with a dialect coach to perfect Oswald’s distinct voice, and wore prosthetics and makeup to achieve the character’s unique appearance.
6. Fan Reception
Taylor’s portrayal of the Penguin in “Gotham” received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. His nuanced performance and ability to bring depth and complexity to the character garnered him a dedicated following.
7. LGBT Advocate
Taylor is an advocate for LGBT rights and has spoken openly about his own experiences as a gay man. He has used his platform to support and raise awareness for the LGBTQ+ community.
8. Music Connection
In addition to acting, Taylor has a passion for music. He is a skilled pianist and has shared his musical talent through performances at various events and on social media.
9. Voice Acting
Taylor has lent his voice to several animated projects, including voicing the character of Richard Sionis/Black Mask in the video game “Batman
Arkham Knight” (2015).
10. Post-“Gotham” Projects
Following the conclusion of “Gotham,” Taylor has continued to work in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in TV shows such as “You” and “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” showcasing his versatility as an actor.
These lesser-known facts shed light on Robin Lord Taylor’s diverse talents, his personal journey, and his notable portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot in “Gotham.” His dedication to his craft, advocacy for social issues, and ongoing projects demonstrate his continued success in the entertainment industry.