5 Shocking Details About Danny DeVito's 'The Contract' And His Current Career-Defining Deals (2025 Update)
The legend of "Danny DeVito and The Contract" is one of Hollywood's most bizarre and enduring stories, a piece of viral marketing genius that has defined his tenure on one of television's longest-running comedies. What began as a hilarious, meta-fictional prank in 2007 has evolved into a real-world discussion about the future of his career, especially as his contract for *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia* (IASIP) nears its unprecedented conclusion. As of late 2025, the focus has shifted from the joke contract to the serious, multi-season deal that will determine the fate of Frank Reynolds and his highly anticipated new projects with major stars.
This deep dive explores the infamous 2007 video, the crucial contract status of *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*, and the slate of new films that prove the 81-year-old icon is far from retirement. We are looking at the contractual agreements that underpin one of the most successful and unconventional careers in entertainment history.
Danny DeVito: A Brief Biography and Filmography
Daniel Michael DeVito Jr., born on November 17, 1944, is an American actor, director, and producer whose stature and distinctive, raspy voice have made him one of the industry's most recognizable figures.
- Full Name: Daniel Michael DeVito Jr.
- Born: November 17, 1944 (Age 81 as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Neptune Township, New Jersey, U.S.
- Spouse: Rhea Perlman (m. 1982; separated)
- Children: Lucy DeVito, Grace DeVito, Jacob DeVito
- Breakthrough Role: Louie DePalma in the sitcom *Taxi* (1978–1983), for which he won a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award.
- Notable Film Roles: The Penguin in *Batman Returns*, Harry Wormwood in *Matilda*, and a starring role opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in *Twins*.
- Directorial Credits: *The War of the Roses*, *Matilda*, and *Death to Smoochy*.
- Current Role: Frank Reynolds in *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia* (Since Season 2).
DeVito's career is marked by a seamless transition between major studio films, acclaimed television, and independent projects, cementing his status as a versatile Hollywood veteran.
The Infamous 2007 Prank: Unpacking "Danny DeVito and The Contract"
The original search query for "Danny DeVito and The Contract" leads directly back to a 2007 promotional video for the third season of *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*. This short film is a crucial piece of the show's meta-humor and a perfect example of the cast's off-screen dynamic.
The Premise of the "Contract" Video
The video, written and directed by Rob McElhenney (who plays Mac), is a mockumentary-style short that purports to show the behind-the-scenes drama of securing DeVito for a third season. The joke revolves around the idea that DeVito, a major Hollywood star, was tricked into signing on to the low-budget FX comedy.
In the short, McElhenney and Charlie Day (Charlie Kelly) reveal that they essentially ambushed DeVito, who was initially brought on for a single season, by having him sign a purposefully vague "contract" that was never fully read. The video hilariously suggests that DeVito was contractually obligated to return, much to his mock chagrin.
Why It Became a Cult Classic
The short film captured the essence of the show's dark, self-aware humor. It also played on the genuine curiosity of how a star of DeVito's caliber ended up on a niche cable comedy in the first place. The reality is that DeVito was brought on in Season 2 to boost ratings, and his immediate chemistry with the cast, particularly as Frank Reynolds, made him an indispensable part of The Gang. The "contract" video simply codified this unexpected, successful partnership in a comedic way.
The Real Contract: Frank Reynolds and the End of IASIP
While the 2007 contract was a joke, the current multi-season deal for *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia* is very real and has major implications for the show's future. IASIP is currently the longest-running live-action comedy series in American television history, and DeVito's contract is a key factor in its longevity.
The Multi-Season Renewal
FX/FXX has repeatedly renewed the show, with the current deal extending through an unprecedented Season 18. This means the cast, including DeVito, is under contract for at least two more seasons beyond the most recently aired one. This long-term commitment ensures the stability of the beloved cast and the continued presence of Frank Reynolds.
The "Final Contract" Rumors
Despite the long contract, the discussion around the show's eventual end is constant. DeVito himself has commented on his contractual status, fueling speculation about when he might hang up Frank Reynolds' signature soiled shirt.
In past interviews, DeVito has hinted that his current agreement might be his "final contract" with the show, suggesting that while he remains committed, the end is in sight. The show's creators, including Charlie Day, have confirmed that the series will only end when The Gang collectively decides it's time, making DeVito's personal contract a major piece of the puzzle.
The contractual stability allows the writers to continue pushing boundaries, knowing their core cast is secure. However, it also means that every new season brings the underlying tension of a potential final bow, particularly for an octogenarian actor with an incredibly busy schedule.
Danny DeVito's New Contracts: Upcoming Projects for 2025 and Beyond
Beyond his commitments to Paddy's Pub, DeVito has signed on for several new projects, demonstrating his continued demand in Hollywood. These new contracts solidify his active status as a sought-after actor, director, and producer into 2025 and 2026.
1. *Poolman* (2024 Release)
DeVito is set to star in *Poolman*, the directorial debut of actor Chris Pine. The film is a mystery-comedy that also stars Annette Bening and Jennifer Jason Leigh. DeVito's involvement in a major star's first feature film highlights his willingness to support new creative ventures, a testament to his long-standing reputation as a producer and collaborator.
2. *A Sudden Case of Christmas* (2024 Release)
Another major contract is for the holiday film *A Sudden Case of Christmas*, a comedy set for release in late 2024. DeVito's role in this seasonal feature showcases his continued draw for mainstream, family-friendly fare, a contrast to his often-raunchy work as Frank Reynolds.
3. The Arnold Schwarzenegger Reunion (TBA)
Perhaps the most anticipated new contract is the unconfirmed but heavily discussed reunion with his *Twins* and *Junior* co-star, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Both actors have publicly confirmed that a new project is officially in development.
- Project Status: Officially in the works, confirmed by both DeVito and Schwarzenegger in early 2024.
- Potential Themes: While details are scarce, the reunion is expected to leverage their iconic comedic chemistry, potentially revisiting themes of unlikely partnerships.
- Significance: This contract represents a massive deal for fans and the industry, marking a return to the blockbuster comedy genre for the duo.
These contracts prove that DeVito's career is experiencing a renaissance, with his work extending far beyond the confines of his longest-running role. His ability to secure deals for high-profile projects, both independent and studio-backed, confirms his enduring appeal and star power.
The DeVito Contract Legacy: From Prank to Power Player
The phrase "Danny DeVito and The Contract" is a perfect microcosm of his career: a blend of high-level industry negotiation and irreverent, self-deprecating humor. The 2007 promotional video was a clever way to acknowledge the massive shift his career took when he joined the IASIP cast. It used the concept of a contract to tell a joke.
Today, the real contract—his ongoing deal for *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*—is one of the most important in television history, securing the future of a cultural phenomenon. Simultaneously, his new contracts for films like *Poolman* and the Schwarzenegger reunion show that his contractual power extends across all facets of the entertainment industry. DeVito remains a powerhouse, signing deals that continue to shape the landscape of comedy and cinema.
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