The Penguin Episode 2 is out. While the storyline continues to be gripping, a new character has left viewers curious. It is none other than Theo Rossi’s Dr Julian Rush. Subsequently, fans have spotted another DC easter egg in his character. So, what is so intriguing about Dr. Julian Rush in The Penguin and how is he connected with the DC universe?
Here is everything you need to know about the character in the series and its connection with the universe.
Is Theo Rossi’s Dr. Julian Rush an original DC character in The Penguin?
As of now, it is likely that Theo Rossi’s Dr. Julian Rush is an original DC character in The Penguin.
Dr Julian Rush is introduced in the second episode of the series. He is seen giving a unique treatment to his patient, Sofia Falcone. Further, he puts Sofia in a state of trance by using three bars of red light. As a result, she starts imagining herself back in Arkham as Rush guides her to go inside the imaginary cell. Sofia has some disturbing visions about her brother Alberto but Rush brings her out of the loop.
She is deeply affected by Rush’s treatment who starts using verbal cues to calm her down. Viewers feel a sense of intimacy between the duo the way Rush holds Sofia to snap her back to reality. He even expresses his desire to help Sofia with her problems leaving her nonchalant.
Is Dr. Julian Rush actually Hugo Strange or Scarecrow in The Batman universe?
Despite certain hints, it is not confirmed whether Dr. Julian Rush is actually Hugo Strange or Scarecrow in The Batman universe
Dr Rush’s introduction in the series made DC fans draw comparisons with characters from The Batman lore. The first character with whom viewers found a similarity was Batman’s villain Hugo Strange. It is because Strange was a twisted psychiatrist working in Arkham or some other Gotham hospital who used dangerous methods on his patients. In The Penguin, Rush’s treatment of Sofia leaves her shocked and disturbed.
Additionally, fans believe Dr. Rush can be Dr Jonathan Crane aka Scarecrow. The similarities between the two characters are using fear for treatment and crossing boundaries with patients. They also share the first initial of their name J.
It is possible the makers changed his name to Julian Rush similar to Edward Nygma becoming Edward Nashton in The Batman and The Penguin changing Oswald Cobblepot to Oswald Cobb. While the hints are endless, fans need to wait for an official confirmation from the makers on how they will explore the new character.
The Penguin is streaming on HBO Max.
