Danny DeVito Saved “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” From Cancellation With This Iconic Role and Hilarious Rum Ham Moment

Danny DeVito’s legendary role as Frank Reynolds didn’t just join “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” – it resurrected the show from near-cancellation. When the chaotic energy of Frank burst onto screens in Season 2, his unpredictable antics, like the infamous “Rum Ham” disaster, became instant comedy gold.

The show’s creators have openly credited DeVito’s arrival as the turning point that secured the series’ future. His fearless physical comedy and perfect synergy with the gang transformed the show into the record-breaking phenomenon it is today, now celebrating its 20th anniversary.

How Danny DeVito’s Frank Reynolds Became the Heart of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia”

When Danny DeVito joined “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” in Season 2 as Frank Reynolds, he didn’t just play a character – he became the show’s chaotic lifeblood. The show was struggling with ratings before his arrival, but Frank’s unhinged energy and willingness to do anything (like crawling out of a leather couch naked) transformed the series into a cult phenomenon. His chemistry with Charlie Day created some of television’s most bizarre yet heartwarming father-son dynamics.

Frank was the missing piece that tied all the narcissistic energy together. While the Gang was always terrible people, Frank made their awfulness feel earned – like he’d corrupted them rather than them being born that way.

But wasn’t Frank too over-the-top compared to the original characters? Like when he ate the rum ham during the boat disaster episode?

That’s exactly the genius of it! The Rum Ham moment proves Frank matched their energy while escalating it. Where else would a man think a ham soaked in rum could save him from drowning? Only in Paddy’s Pub logic.

The “Rum Ham” Scene That Defined Frank’s Madness

Season 5’s “The Gang Goes to the Jersey Shore” gave us perhaps Frank’s most iconic moment – the tragic yet hilarious loss of his beloved Rum Ham at sea. This scene encapsulated everything about the character: his bizarre logic, gluttonous tendencies, and complete lack of survival instincts. Viewers still debate whether Rum Ham could theoretically float.

Why Did the Cast Initially Reject Having Danny DeVito Join the Show?

Though it’s hard to imagine now, the original Gang (Rob McElhenney, Glenn Howerton, Charlie Day, and Kaitlin Olson) were initially hesitant about adding a Hollywood star to their scrappy little show. They worried a big name like DeVito would change their dynamic or make the network interfere with their creative freedom. As McElhenney later admitted, “We were idiots – Danny became our greatest ally.”

DeVito’s Influence: How He Changed the Show’s Comedy DNA

Beyond just saving the show from cancellation, DeVito fundamentally altered its comedic approach. His physical comedy background brought new dimensions to scenes that previously relied more on dialogue humor. The “Frank Gets Divorced” episode where he peels off his skin-colored body suit remains one of the most visually insane moments in sitcom history.

From “Taxi” to Paddy’s Pub: DeVito’s Career Renaissance

At the time he joined Always Sunny, DeVito was in a career lull between major projects. The role reignited interest in his unique comedic talents and led to memorable later roles like his voice work in “The Lorax.” Fans often forget that Frank Reynolds was supposed to be a temporary character, but DeVito’s commitment to the role’s insanity made him indispensable.

The Dark Genius Behind Frank’s Most Disturbing Moments

Who else but DeVito could make eating human meat (S5E3 “The Gang Hits the Road”) or living in squalor (S4E6 “Mac & Charlie Die”) somehow sympathetic? His ability to find the humanity in Frank’s most depraved actions is what makes the character work. Few actors could vomit on demand as convincingly as DeVito does in “The Gang Gets Quarantined.”

Looking Ahead: Could the Show Survive Without Frank Now?

As the show approaches its 17th season – making it the longest-running live-action sitcom in American television history – fans wonder if the now-79-year-old DeVito will continue. The creators have stated they’ll end the show when he’s done. This speaks volumes about how integral Frank has become to the show’s identity. The Gang’s depravity now seems genetically linked to Frank’s influence.

I can’t imagine Sunny without Frank’s “WILD CARD!” moments or him sleeping in the bar’s basement like a gremlin. Do you think they’d actually end it if he left?

Absolutely. The show’s DNA changed when Frank arrived. His departure would be like removing the yeast from beer – you’d just have barley water pretending to be something it’s not.