Who played Batman – Let us talk about the Caped Crusader and explore the different actors who have donned the iconic Batman suit over the years. From the campy days of Adam West to the brooding intensity of Christian Bale, each portrayal has left its mark on the Bat-lore. So, take your utility belt and let’s talk about who played Batman and more:
All the Batman Actors: Who played Batman
Here are some Batman actors and who played Batman that you should know:
| Actor | Movies |
| Adam West | Batman (1966) |
| Michael Keaton | Batman (1989), Batman Returns (1992), The Flash (2023) |
| Kevin Conroy | Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993) |
| Val Kilmer | Batman Forever (1995) |
| George Clooney | Batman & Robin (1997) |
| Christian Bale | Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008), The Dark Knight Rises (2012) |
| Ben Affleck | Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), Suicide Squad (2016), Justice League (2017), Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021), The Flash (2023) |
| Will Arnett | The Lego Batman Movie (2017) |
| Robert Pattinson | The Batman (2022) |
| Keanu Reeves | DC’s League of Super-Pets (2022) |
Adam West
Batman (1966)
Adam West was the first actor to bring Batman to life on the big screen. His portrayal was delightfully campy, complete with colorful villains, “Biff!” and “Pow!” graphics, and a Batmobile that defied the laws of physics. While not the most serious Batman, West’s legacy endures as a beloved classic.
Michael Keaton
Batman (1989), Batman Returns (1992), The Flash (2023)
Michael Keaton’s brooding Batman redefined the character for a new generation. Tim Burton’s dark and Gothic Gotham City provided the perfect backdrop for Keaton’s intense performance. His gravelly voice and iconic cowl remain etched in Bat-history.
Kevin Conroy
Who played Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
Although primarily known as the voice of Batman in the acclaimed animated series, Kevin Conroy’s portrayal in “Mask of the Phantasm” deserves recognition. His voice work captured the essence of Batman’s inner conflict and detective skills.
Val Kilmer
Batman Forever (1995)
Val Kilmer stepped into the Bat-suit during Joel Schumacher’s neon-soaked era. While the film itself was divisive, Kilmer’s performance balanced the brooding and heroic sides of Bruce Wayne.
George Clooney
Batman & Robin (1997)
George Clooney’s tenure as Batman is often remembered for its campiness, bat-nipples, and pun-filled dialogue. Despite the film’s flaws, Clooney’s charm still shines through.
Christian Bale
Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008), The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
Christian Bale’s portrayal is arguably the most iconic. Christopher Nolan’s trilogy gave us a grounded, Batman who wrestled with morality, fear, and the Joker. Bale’s commitment to the role elevated superhero cinema.
Ben Affleck
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), Suicide Squad (2016), Justice League (2017), Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021), The Flash (2023)
Ben Affleck’s older, battle-worn Batman brought a different flavour to the DCEU. His grizzled demeanour and tactical prowess made him a standout.
Will Arnett
The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
Will Arnett’s comedic take on Batman in the animated Lego universe was a delightful parody. His self-absorbed, blocky Batman had us laughing while paying homage to the character’s legacy.
Robert Pattinson
The Batman (2022)
Robert Pattinson’s brooding, detective-focused Batman is the latest addition to the Bat-family. His portrayal promises a fresh take on the Dark Knight, with a noir-inspired Gotham City.
Keanu Reeves
DC’s League of Super-Pets (2022)
Yes, you read that right. Keanu Reeves voices Batman in an upcoming animated film. While it is a departure from his usual roles, we are curious to see how he handles the Bat-voice.
Beyond the Big Screen
Adam West also graced our TV screens as Batman in the iconic 1960s series. Kevin Conroy continued voicing Batman in various animated shows and video games. Other actors, like David Mazouz (from “Gotham”) and Iain Glen (from “Titans”), have also shown Bruce Wayne in different contexts.
Some FAQs
Who was the first actor to play Batman in a live-action film?
Adam West portrayed Batman in the 1966 film Batman.
Who played Batman, who is considered the most iconic?
In Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight trilogy, Christian Bale left a lasting impact.
Who voiced Batman in the animated series?
In the acclaimed Batman: The Animated Series, Kevin Conroy lent his voice to Batman.
Who is the latest Batman on the big screen?
Robert Pattinson stars as the brooding Dark Knight in The Batman (2022).
Did Keanu Reeves ever play Batman?
Yes! Keanu voices Batman in the animated film DC’s League of Super-Pets (2022).
