Danny DeVito Returns to New Jersey, Reflects on Hall of Fame Honors, Bon Jovi Legacy, and 18 Years of ‘Always Sunny’
Actor and director Danny DeVito is famous. Asbury Park is his hometown, so returning to New Jersey feels like coming home. The 17th annual New Jersey Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held at The Rink at The Arena at American Dream in East Rutherford on November 21. DeVito will host. He enjoys it always. After Hollywood, he loves New Jersey. It brings back childhood memories.
DeVito stars in movies and TV at 81. He joined the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He held the event multiple times, and virtual ceremonies continued during the pandemic. He said being with other New Jerseyans whose work has changed towns across the state and beyond is the best thing ever. It’s more than a party to him. He can be proud of his career and background.
According to DeVito, joining the group years ago was difficult. After winning many Hollywood awards, honoring his home state meant something different. He said the NJ Hall of Fame is more than a celebrity list. Smart, talented, kind, creative, and inspiring people are honored. In 2010, Bruce Springsteen surprised and honored DeVito by inducting him, a year after he confidently did so in 2008. He considered those his best work years.
This year, Michael Uslan is honored for producing the new Batman films. DeVito knows. DeVito debuted as the Penguin in “Batman Returns.” One of his best parts. DeVito said making US-sized movies is difficult and time-consuming. When managing large creative teams, Uslan was praised for his leadership, vision, and kindness. He suggested New Jersey honor Uslan.
DeVito also admired Jon Bon Jovi’s wife Dorothea Bongiovi. She worked at JBJ Soul Kitchen and in charity. DeVito has known Bon Jovi for years and admires her community work. Kindness and thanking people who help us without being asked are crucial. He believes the Bongiovi family represents New Jersey worldwide with their skills and service.
DeVito passionately described a New Jersey celebrity. State residents have always been important to him. Smart, helpful, creative, and nice. These people, famous or not, improve their communities daily. The Hall of Fame is about that.
DeVito won’t slow down with his workload. He announced that “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” which he joined in 2006, would return early next year for its 18th season. He declared the show “legal,” meaning it has aired longer than any other live-action sitcom. He also hinted at other projects, some public and some private. He always makes time for New Jersey, despite his busy schedule.
Fans are excited about this year’s celebrity honorees and full ceremony. More than attention, DeVito wants to reconnect with the people, community, and state that helped him start his career.
Sources:
New Jersey Hall of Fame
Interviews with Danny DeVito
