The origin of The Joker in "Gotham" series will finally be teased before "Gotham" Season 1 wraps up, according to show-runner Bruno Heller.
The Joker in TV's "Gotham" series is a much-anticipated entry, and Heller previously said introducing Batman's nemesis will be handled very carefully. Now it's confirmed the series will finally scratch the surface of The Joker's origins.
The character's persona in the TV show was widely speculated; there was even a rumor The Penguin was actually The Joker in disguise, and the Oswald Cobblepot name a patsy. This was dismissed, though, with a separate identity confirmed for the Caped Crusader's arch-enemy.
In an interview with TV Guide, Heller said fans won't have to wait longer to see a glimpse of The Joker's origins, in contrast to previously promised.
"We've said you're going to be waiting a bit longer for it, but this is America - nobody wants to wait. [Laughs] So, we will scratch the surface of that story, yes. But just scratch it - a little tap on the door [before season one is done]."
Heller could be referring to the Feb. 23 episode of "Gotham" Season 1, which will feature the Red Hood Gang and expectedly, The Joker, before he got his iconic disfigured face.
In the graphic novels, The Joker wore a red hood over his head as cover. An encounter with Batman left him in a vat of toxic chemicals; The Joker survived the mishap, but with a severely disfigured face.
"Gotham" Season 1 has been following through on Oswald Cobblepot's story thread, with positive reception. Though it's confirmed The Joker will be part of the first season's wrap up, Heller suggests it's barely a spoiler for season 2 (screenrant.com).
An actor is yet to be announced to play The Joker in "Gotham" TV series; some of the major villains' origins in the Dark Knight story are already revealed, including Poison Ivy, The Riddler, Catwoman and The Penguin.
Not Heath Ledger: origin story for The Joker in "Gotham" series to be teased before season 1 wraps up.