All Time 15 Best Batman Actors 2023 (Ranked From Worst To Best) 2023
Batman is one of the most iconic superheroes in popular culture, with a rich history in both comic books and on the big screen. From the campy charm of Adam West to the gritty realism of Christian Bale, these are the best Batman actorsof all time.
Over the years, many actors have taken on the mantle of the Dark Knight, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the character.
In this article, we will explore the top actors who have played Batman and examine their performances in detail.
Batman Actors Ranked!
#15 - Lewis Wilson
Batman Incarnations : Lewis Wilson
Lewis Wilson played the character of Batman in the 1943 movie serial "Batman." Although it was the first live-action Batman adaptation, Wilson's portrayal of the character is often criticized.
He was seen as stiff and unemotional in his portrayal of the Caped Crusader. The movie was also made during World War II, and the character was given more of a patriotic edge, which may have affected the overall quality of the film.
#14 - Robert Lowery
Robert Lowery is Batman in 1 Minute DC Spotlight
Robert Lowery played Batman in the 1949 movie serial "Batman and Robin." He was an improvement over Lewis Wilson's portrayal, but still fell short compared to later Batman actors.
Lowery's Batman was seen as a bit more serious and focused than Wilson's, but the production values of the serial were still relatively low, and the storylines were not particularly memorable.
#13 - Val Kilmer
Val Kilmer Reacts to His 1985 Top Gun ET Interview (Exclusive)
Val Kilmer played Batman in the 1995 movie "Batman Forever." Although the film was a box office success, Kilmer's portrayal of the Dark Knight was not well received by critics or fans.
He was seen as too reserved and detached in the role, lacking the intensity and brooding quality that many feel is essential to the character.
Kilmer was also overshadowed by the more flamboyant performances of his co-stars, Jim Carrey and Tommy Lee Jones.
#12 - George Clooney
George Clooney as Batman Cameo Scene | THE FLASH (HD)
George Clooney played Batman in the 1997 movie "Batman & Robin." The film is widely regarded as one of the worst Batman movies ever made, and Clooney's portrayal of the character is often cited as one of the reasons for its failure.
Clooney's Batman is seen as too jokey and lighthearted, lacking the dark and brooding quality that is often associated with the character.
The film's poor reception led to a hiatus in the Batman franchise, which lasted for nearly a decade.
#11 - Adam West
Meet Adam West (The Simpsons)
Adam West played Batman in the 1960s television series "Batman." The show was a huge success at the time, and West's portrayal of the character was very popular with audiences.
However, in hindsight, many fans and critics see the show as campy and over-the-top, and West's portrayal of Batman as too cheesy and simplistic.
While he may not have been the most serious or nuanced Batman, he did help popularize the character and make him a household name.
#10 - David Mazouz
David Mazouz faces the rise of the villains in 'Gotham'
David Mazouz is an American actor known for playing the young Bruce Wayne in the television series "Gotham" from 2014 to 2019.
His portrayal of the young billionaire was praised for his ability to convey the character's vulnerability, determination, and moral fortitude.
Mazouz was just 13 years old when he first took on the role of Bruce Wayne, making him one of the youngest actors to play the iconic character.
Despite his age, Mazouz's performance as Bruce Wayne proved to be one of the highlights of the series.
#9 - Diedrich Bader
Diedrich Bader, Batman of Two of the Funniest Gothams - The Best of the D-List
Diedrich Bader provided the voice for Batman character, bringing a unique and comedic interpretation to the Dark Knight.
His performance showcased Batman's heroic qualities while incorporating a touch of humor and lightheartedness.
Bader's voice work as Batman was well-received by both critics and fans, adding to his impressive list of voice acting credits in animated projects.
#8 - Will Arnett
Will Arnett: Voice-Over King | CONAN on TBS
Will Arnett is a Canadian-American actor and comedian who voiced Batman in the critically acclaimed animated movie "The Lego Batman Movie" in 2017.
Arnett's performance as the Caped Crusader was praised for his ability to balance Batman's serious, brooding persona with his trademark wit and humor.
Arnett's portrayal of Batman is considered one of the best comedic interpretations of the character, and he is widely regarded as one of the highlights of the movie.
#7 - Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck & Matt Damon Reflect on Their Careers Together | Vanity Fair
Ben Affleck is an American actor and filmmaker who played Batman in the DC Extended Universe. He first appeared as the character in "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" in 2016 and reprised the role in "Suicide Squad" and "Justice League."
Affleck's portrayal of Batman was praised for his physicality and intensity, and his version of the character was one of the most brutal and aggressive interpretations of the Dark Knight.
#6 - Jason O'Mara
Justice League: War - Jason O'Mara on Batman (Clip 1)
Jason O'Mara is an Irish actor who voiced Batman in the animated movie "Justice League: War" and subsequently voiced the character in other DC animated movies and TV shows. O'Mara's portrayal of Batman is known for being one of the most faithful adaptations of the character's comic book persona.
He perfectly captures the brooding, serious nature of Batman, while also conveying the character's intelligence, determination, and sense of justice. O'Mara's version of Batman is widely regarded as one of the most authentic portrayals of the Dark Knight.
#5 - Michael Keaton
Michael Keaton Says Reprising His Role as Batman Is Like Riding a Bike | The Tonight Show
Michael Keaton played the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne in Tim Burton's 1989 film "Batman" and its 1992 sequel "Batman Returns."
Keaton's performance was widely praised by fans and critics alike for his portrayal of the brooding Dark Knight, bringing a balance of intensity and humor to the character.
Keaton's Batman was darker and grittier than previous portrayals, making him a fan favorite and setting the tone for future Batman adaptations.
#4 - Christian Bale
Christian Bale's Secret That Got Him RIPPED For Batman! (Full Program)
Christian Bale portrayed Batman/Bruce Wayne in Christopher Nolan's "Dark Knight" trilogy, which included "Batman Begins" (2005), "The Dark Knight" (2008), and "The Dark Knight Rises" (2012).
Bale's portrayal of the character was widely acclaimed, with many fans and critics considering him to be the best Batman of all time.
His performance captured the complexity of the character, showcasing both his strength and vulnerability. Bale's dedication to the role, including intense physical training, also helped make his portrayal memorable.
#3 - Troy Baker
Troy Baker is an excellent Batman.
Troy Baker voiced Batman/Bruce Wayne in the popular video game series "Batman: Arkham." His performance was highly praised by fans and critics alike, as he brought a more nuanced and introspective take on the character.
Baker's voice acting gave Batman a more introspective and thoughtful quality, making him a more compelling character than in other adaptations.
#2 - Bruce Greenwood
Bruce Greenwood as Batman Performance Compilation
Bruce Greenwood voiced Batman/Bruce Wayne in the animated film "Batman: Under the Red Hood" (2010) and the animated TV series "Young Justice" (2010-2013).
His performance was widely praised for capturing the character's intelligence, stoicism, and authority. Greenwood's Batman was a more serious and focused character, which helped to make him a fan favorite.
#1 - Kevin Conroy
Thank you, Kevin Conroy
Kevin Conroy has been the voice of Batman/Bruce Wayne for over 30 years, beginning with the groundbreaking animated series "Batman: The Animated Series" (1992-1995).
He has continued to voice the character in numerous animated films and TV shows, as well as video games such as "Batman: Arkham."
Conroy's performance has been widely hailed as the definitive portrayal of the character, capturing both his strength and vulnerability.
His voice acting brings a gravitas and intensity to Batman that has made him an iconic figure in popular culture.
Final Thoughts
Batman character has been portrayed by many talented actors over the years. Each actor has brought their own unique style and interpretation to the role, making it a beloved and timeless character in pop culture.
From the dark and brooding Christian Bale to the campy and comedic Adam West, the best Batman actors have captured the essence of the character and brought him to life on the big screen.
Fans of the Dark Knight will undoubtedly continue to debate and discuss who the best Batman actor is for years to come, but there is no denying the impact and influence that the character has had on cinema and popular culture.
