PTC Commends Warner Bros. for Not Allowing Smoking in “The Batman”

LOS ANGELES (February 25, 2022) – The Parents Television and Media Council (PTC) lauded Warner Bros.’ decision to keep smoking out of its upcoming film, “The Batman.” As reported by Variety, Actor Colin Farrell “fought valiantly” for his character, Oswald Cobblepot, a.k.a. the Penguin, to have a cigar as a prop but the studio declined.

“Warner Bros.’ decision to not allow smoking in ‘The Batman’ is commendable, and on behalf of millions of families, we are grateful. Actors may scoff at children being influenced to smoke as a result of seeing it on TV or in a film, but why else would Warner Bros. decide not to show it? Because Warner Bros. knows that what children watch onscreen can influence them—rightly or wrongly,” said PTC President Tim Winter.

“The entire business premise of Hollywood is built on engaging an audience and triggering emotional responses that can influence the viewer. Hollywood can choose to use that influence for good, or not. Warner Bros. is making a wise choice – especially when a film like ‘The Batman’ will inevitably have children in the audience.”