Who is Animal Kingdom Based On? Unraveling the Real-Life Inspiration Behind the Hit Show

Hello there, TV enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of Animal Kingdom, the gripping crime drama that's had us on the edge of our seats since 2016. But here's a question that's been bugging us all: Who is Animal Kingdom based on? Let's find out, shall we? Guys, explore more in Celebrity Profiles and who is animal kingdom based on.

The Real-Life Cody Family: The Inspiration Behind Animal Kingdom

Alright, Animal Kingdom fans, let's rewind back to 2010. That's when the story of the Cody family first hit our screens, not as a TV show, but as a feature film directed by David Michôd. The movie was loosely based on the real-life exploits of the Pettingill family, an Australian criminal dynasty that terrorized Melbourne in the 1980s.

The Pettingills, much like the Cody family in the show, were a close-knit yet dysfunctional bunch, led by their matriarch, Janet Pettingill, who was known for her ruthless tactics and iron fist. She was the inspiration behind Janine "Smurf" Cody, played by the incredible Ellen Barkin in the TV series.

From Australia to the USA: The Cody Family's New Home

Now, you might be wondering, why the shift from Australia to the sunny shores of Southern California in the TV series? Well, Animal Kingdom's creator, Jonathan Lisco, wanted to explore a new dynamic for the Cody family. He moved the action to the United States to create a fresh setting and delve deeper into the family's criminal exploits and complex relationships.

The Cody Boys: Real-Life Counterparts

Let's talk about the Cody boys. In the show, we have Cody, the eldest, played by Finn Cole; Deran, the surf-loving middle child, portrayed by Jake Weary; Liam, the youngest, played by Daniel Zolghadri; and J, the adopted son, played by Ben Robson. So, who are these guys based on?

While the Pettingill family had several sons, the Cody boys in the TV series are more of a composite, drawing inspiration from various family members and their unique traits. For instance, Cody's struggle with his father's legacy and his attempt to break free from the family's criminal ways is reminiscent of Mark Pettingill, Janet's son, who eventually turned against his mother and testified against her in court.

Deran's love for surfing and his desire to live a normal life away from the family's criminal activities are inspired by Victor Peirce, another of Janet's sons, who was known for his laid-back attitude and surfing prowess.

Liam's innocence and naivety, as well as his close bond with Smurf, mirror the relationship between Janet Pettingill and her youngest son, Wayne. Lastly, J's outsider status and his role as a hired gun within the family reflect the dynamics of the Pettingill family, who often recruited non-family members to carry out their criminal activities.

The Codys' Criminal Empire: Fact vs. Fiction

Now, let's talk about the Cody family's criminal empire. In the show, we see them involved in everything from armed robberies and heists to money laundering and drug trafficking. While the Pettingill family was certainly no strangers to crime, their real-life exploits were a bit more low-key than the Codys' high-stakes adventures.

The Pettingills were primarily involved in armed robberies, extortion, and counterfeiting. They were known for their meticulous planning and their use of disguises during their heists. However, their criminal activities were not as large-scale or as violent as what we see in the TV series.

The Cody Family Dynamics: Love, Hate, and Everything In Between

One aspect of Animal Kingdom that truly shines is its exploration of the complex family dynamics between the Codys. The show delves into the love, hate, and everything in between that binds these characters together. This aspect of the show is where the real-life inspiration is most evident.

The Pettingill family was known for their fierce loyalty to one another, even in the face of adversity. This loyalty, however, often came at a cost, with family members frequently turning against each other in a bid to protect themselves or their loved ones. This complex dynamic is at the heart of Animal Kingdom, driving the show's narrative and keeping us hooked episode after episode.

Janine "Smurf" Cody: The Real-Life Janet Pettingill

Lastly, let's talk about Janine "Smurf" Cody, the matriarch of the Cody family, played by Ellen Barkin. Smurf is a complex character, equal parts loving mother and ruthless criminal mastermind. She is the glue that holds the Cody family together, and her influence over her sons is both a source of strength and a cause of their downfall.

Smurf's character is based on Janet Pettingill, the matriarch of the real-life Pettingill family. Like Smurf, Janet was known for her sharp intellect, her cunning, and her ability to manipulate those around her. She was a formidable figure, both within her family and in the criminal underworld, and her influence over her sons was legendary.

Animal Kingdom: A Tale of Crime, Family, and Redemption

So, there you have it, folks! Animal Kingdom is indeed based on a real-life family of criminals, but the show is so much more than just a true-crime retelling. It's a gripping exploration of family dynamics, loyalty, and the struggle for redemption in the face of a dark past.

The show may be based on real-life events, but it's the characters and their complex relationships that truly bring Animal Kingdom to life. From the Cody boys' struggle for independence to Smurf's attempts to maintain control over her family, every character in this show is a fascinating study in human complexity.

So, the next time you're watching Animal Kingdom, remember that while the show may be a work of fiction, it's inspired by a real-life family that was just as complex, just as flawed, and just as fascinating as the Codys.

Until next time, stay tuned, and keep your eyes peeled for the next big thing in TV!