Pennyworth is perhaps one of the most well-known non-super characters in the superhero universe. His iconic relationship as butler to Bruce Wayne earns him a mention in most Caped Crusader conversations. Alfred was the glue that held the broken fragments of a young Bruce Wayne and his affairs together following the premature death of his parents. Without Alfred, Bruce could never have successfully fulfilled his role as protector of Gotham City.

From the moment he took on his duties as a servant and later a surrogate father to Wayne, he had Bruce’s six and twelve. And by no means is it a hidden fact that Pennyworth extended his services well beyond that of Bruce but also mentoring Batman’s sidekicks. As DC notes, “he has not only raised Bruce Wayne, but also the four young men who have worn the mask of Robin, the Boy Wonder: Dick Grayson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, and now, Damian Wayne.”

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Despite Alfred’s significance in the comic world, few stories of this iconic character’s origin have been told on the silver or small screen. But, audiences have not exactly clamored for his story to be told, at least non-comic book readers. Nevertheless, that doesn’t make the story of the lethally skilled servile giant any less intriguing. Furthermore, his importance in DC as he relates to Batman is too pertinent not to explore his origins. So, Bruno Heller answered the call with a creative concept leading to the development of the Pennyworth series. Since its very first episodes, the series has succeeded where others have failed. This tale of Pennyworth does a superb job of using source material and digging into the mythos to craft a story of a titular figure in comics that is rarely told.

Pennyworth is now two seasons down and bears recognition as one of the most well-written television shows. Yet, with a good chunk of the story told: Why is Pennyworth a must-see for newcomers, and why should current watchers tune in for a season three? Alfred’s position in the DC Universe as an associate of one of Detective Comics’ most recognizable heroes and the historical context alone is a reasonable rationale for watching Pennyworth.

However, that is far from the only reason viewers should tune in to the series. A well-written storyline, compelling characters, a diversion in perspective, and a more in-depth exploration of Pennyworth, are all reasons to tune in.

Pennyworth: More In-depth Character Exploration

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Comic fans know that Alfred Pennyworth was once known as Alfred Beagle. Alfred was introduced in the February 1945 issue of Detective Comics #96 by the surname of Beagle. Alfred is British by birth and blood, and he grows to become a British gentleman through and through, by heart and nature. Beagle later changed his surname to Pennyworth. Taking on the occupation as a butler was never his intention. Nevertheless, he assumes the role to fulfill his father’s wishes.

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Eventually, Alfred gained employment as a butler to Thomas, Martha, and Bruce Wayne. Although Bruce’s butler by title, he became more appropriately like a surrogate father. But not only did Alfred act as a surrogate to young Wayne after the untimely death of his parents, but as an instructor equipping Wayne with the tools to protect himself. And Alfred continued to be Bruce Wayne’s protectorate and adviser throughout much of his life.

Heller’s Pennyworth

In the former Epix series, Pennyworth (Jack Bannon) perfectly embodies the title of a renaissance man. He is a man of many skills, and he wields them well. But, as viewers will discover, it is his background and position in society that equips him to be a master of many things. So, the series begins with an introduction to a young Pennyworth and his pals fresh from the battlefield. Though affected by the war, they are a forward-looking bunch. But Pennyworth has designs for his future.

The series covers Pennyworth’s evolvement from a special forces soldier in the British military to a rough and tumble hitman for hire/hero. We follow him from a short-term stint as a bouncer to the frontman for his own security company and finally as a significant player in the tenuous affairs of his country, a country divided by rumblings of a bloody civil war.

A chance encounter with Thomas Wayne changes young Pennyworth’s life. From then on, he must use his wit and intelligence to complete his missions. Although he is a son of servants, he carries himself as a prince among men. Even when ministering his bloody version of justice, he does so honorably and as a civil servant to the Queen. Alfred’s unique brand of services and a particular set of skills lead all types to clamor for his assistance. He is a man with unbridled courage and passion. He’s the one you root for from the very beginning.

Intriguing and Well-Written Storylines

The story undergirding this show is a well-written narrative on society at war with itself, the complex issues of governance, and the impact on its citizenry. More specifically, the story drills down to how these issues mold Pennyworth into who he becomes. It is his maneuvers within this landscape that support the dramatic build-up. However, as much as it is about Alfred, it is also about the major players exploring international ties and entanglements between various covert agencies such as the No Names, the Ravens, and U.S. CIA. Harrell does not hold back; there is a bit of everything from espionage to live executions.

Britain’s shadow faction, the Ravens, and the Crown are the two primary strategic movers in the series. The Ravens are an underground group upon which Alfred finds himself at odds. They are moved to organize and act by leaders with illusions of grandeur who espouse their ideologies that will restore Britain to its former glory. However, this puts the Ravens at odds with the Queen (Jessica Ellerby).

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But the crown is ruled by a particular public standard but guided by a firm hand outside the public spotlight. The crown isn’t above using ruthless means and behind-the-scenes associations to squelch any probable insurrectionist behavior. And the brushstroke wherein Heller colors the brutality underscoring the crown, and its muscle is enthralling. That does not even take into account the Easter eggs, which foreshadow events in the life of young Bruce Wayne.

Compelling Characters

Pennyworth has some of the most compelling characters to be written for a DC property. They are complex characters with interesting backgrounds and arcs. The on-screen chemistry is brilliant, bringing authenticity to plots that seem to jump from the pages of a Tom Clancy super-spy thriller or Ian Fleming original.

Characters such as The Ripper (Danny Webb), Cilla Black (Loreece Harrison), Ms. Martha Kane (Emma Paetz), Thomas Wayne (Ben Aldridge), Bet (Paloma Faith), Lord James Harwood (Jason Flemyng), and the blokes who run with Pennyworth, Bazza (Hainsley Lloyd Bennett) and Daveboy (Ryan Fletcher) keep viewers on their toes. Each character is well written, and the actors who move behind their guises give stellar performances.

A Different Perspective

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Pennyworth gives its viewers a different perspective. It helps fans of DC and Bruce Wayne understand the nuances that shape Alfred into who he is to become. And as fantastical as it may come off, it gives viewers a different perspective on Britain, the Queen, and the loyalist to the Crown. It tells a fresh story from a new angle, something that is often lacking in many shows.

As a bit of good news, there will indeed be more of the story to enjoy. HBO Max will continue the drama in October with season 3 of Pennyworth.