HBO show's first episode called 'one of the best in 2024' blows Succession out of the water

HBO's latest sensation, airing Thursday nights, has already been hailed as a television masterpiece following its premiere last week.

A fresh episode is set to broadcast tonight (September 24).

Kicking off to widespread acclaim, this new drama has captivated millions who watched the first installment and anticipation is high that numbers will grow as more episodes roll out.

Even more impressive, its debut outdid the opening of Succession's final season, HBO's recent hit.

With a whopping 5.3 million viewers across various platforms in America, The Penguin promises to be one of the most successful launches of 2024, reports the Manchester Evening News .

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In terms of ratings, the first showing outshined HBO giants The White Lotus and True Detective: Night Country.

Starring Colin Farrell, the series follows the notorious Batman nemesis' ascension to Gotham's criminal overlord status in an eight-part saga that continues Matt Reeves' monumental 2022 film.

Critics and fans alike have lauded Farrell's portrayal, with Cristin Milioti's role as Sofia Falcone, allying with Oswald 'Oz' Cobblepot/Penguin, also drawing significant admiration.

@DiscussingFilm on X (formerly Twitter) praised The Penguin's inaugural episode as "one of the best pilot episodes for a TV series in 2024."

They raved, "A jaw-dropping intro and ending + fantastic performances from Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti!"

One fan gushed, "The Joker has always been the crown jewel of Batman villains for stars to go for. Colin Farrell has elevated Oz Cobb to the same status."

They continued, praising Farrell's portrayal: "He's a ghost lost behind one of the best performances ever seen in a comic book adaptation. Don't underestimate #ThePenguin."

The enthusiasm didn't stop there as another viewer chimed in with acclaim for the character's solo venture: "The rise of #ThePenguin begins with one of the best pilots I have ever seen."

Elaborating, they said, "A gritty crime drama which is tremendously written, directed and acted. Colin Farrell fully embodies the character, a scheming weasel constantly underestimated thirsting for power. Appointment TV is back."

Moreover, another individual expressed their excitement: "One of the best pilot episodes I have ever seen... if you are a DC fanboy like me...do yourself a favour and stream the first episode."

Rounding out the accolades, another affirmed, "#ThePenguin was five stars across the board. Brilliant," and boldly claimed, "Will go down in television history for having one of the best premieres of all time."

The Penguin continues Thursdays on HBO.