The Bizarre Way Danny DeVito Got His Only Oscar Nomination

Lauren Novak March 5, 12:00 pm

UNSPECIFIED - APRIL 06: In this screengrab, Danny DeVito speaks during the 19th Annual VES Awards Gala on April 06, 2021 — VES 2021 via Getty Images

What To Know

Danny DeVito’s only Oscar nomination came not for acting, but as a producer.
Despite his long and celebrated acting career, DeVito has never received an Oscar nomination for acting.
DeVito has earned significant recognition elsewhere.

Danny DeVito has appeared in many iconic movies and television shows throughout the decades, including memorable turns in Taxi, Terms of Endearment, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and more. This is probably why the story of his only Oscar nomination still surprises most people. Additionally, the nod did not come from acting, directing, or even writing. It came from producing the drama, Erin Brockovich.

Released in 2000 and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film told the true story of a legal clerk who helped build a massive case against Pacific Gas and Electric over water contamination in Hinkley, California. The movie became both a critical and commercial success. At the 73rd Academy Awards, it earned five nominations, including Best Picture. As one of the credited producers through Jersey Films, DeVito shared that Best Picture nomination with Michael Shamberg and Stacey Sher.

Paramount/Everett Collection

That nomination remains the only Academy Award recognition of DeVito’s career. He has never been nominated for an Oscar as an actor, despite decades of high-profile performances. The film’s success was significant across the board at the Oscars. Julia Roberts won the Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of Brockovich, and Soderbergh received nominations for Best Director and Best Film Editing.

DeVito’s role was entirely behind the scenes, yet essential. Jersey Films had built a reputation throughout the 1990s for backing distinctive projects, including Pulp Fiction and Get Shorty, and Erin Brockovich became one of its most celebrated films.

While the Academy only recognized him once, DeVito’s broader awards history is substantial. For his performance as Louie De Palma on Taxi, he won a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award. He has also received multiple nominations from both the Golden Globes, the Primetime Emmys, BAFTA and the Screen Actors Guild.