Ranking All 7 Batman Actors From Least to Most Impressive

      Here is a ranking of all seven actors who have portrayed Batman, as we attempt to analyze what contributes to a great Batman performance.

      We have chosen not to include the animated Batman performers, such as the remarkable Kevin Conroy, although we hold them in high regard. Our focus is solely on live-action portrayals, as voice acting differs significantly from on-screen acting.

      Keep in mind that opinions on this matter are subjective, and since passions for Batman can run deep, feel free to share your disagreements.

      Now, let’s rank all seven Batman actors from worst to best, starting with (apologies) the least favorable:

      George Clooney

      Warner Bros.

      It’s nearly impossible to critique George Clooney’s portrayal of Batman more severely than he has himself. He took on the role in only one film, 1997’s Batman & Robin, and has provided himself with a brutal evaluation.

      “When I say Batman & Robin is a terrible film, I always go, ‘I was terrible in it,’” Clooney shared with GQ. “Because I was, number one. But also because acknowledging my shortcomings allows me to say that the other elements didn’t work either. You know? Lines like ‘Freeze, Freeze!’”

      He has a valid point: no actor could have succeeded in a role as it was written. Additionally, the infamous nipples on the Batsuit didn’t improve matters.

      Ben Affleck

      Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill in Batman v Superman. Warner Bros. – Credit: Warner Bros.

      We realize this may provoke the ire of the Snyderverse fans, but here it goes.

      Ben Affleck had the potential to be the best Batman: he possesses the stature to present an imposing figure, along with the sensitivity and nuance needed to convey the wit, intelligence, and torment of a billionaire by day and vigilante by night, caught between two identities: which one is the facade, Bruce or Batman?

      However, the films featuring Affleck’s Batman—Batman v Superman and Justice League (both the Joss Whedon and Zack Snyder versions)—were, at best, chaotic and leaned heavily into a gritty, serious, and militaristic portrayal of Batman.

      They offered little opportunity for nuance or exploration of one of the greatest literary characters of the 20th century.

      Val Kilmer

      Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      Val Kilmer brings an effortless, lighthearted charm that made him a standout Bruce Wayne: he convincingly portrays a man who casually navigates his daily interactions to focus on his more critical nighttime duties.

      Kilmer also suited the role as both Batman and Bruce Wayne—his lean build is preferable as it allows him to rely more on his skills and equipment rather than sheer bulk.

      His Batman film, Batman Forever, is largely overshadowed by Jim Carrey’s over-the-top Riddler, which resulted in Kilmer not having enough screen time. Nonetheless, we appreciate Val Kilmer and wish he had starred in more Batman films.

      Also Read: 7 Odd Aspects of the Batman and Robin Dynamic That Are Often Ignored

      Adam West

      Adam West and Burt Ward in Batman. ABC – Credit: 20th Century Fox

      For many years, Adam West was the quintessential Batman—charmingly so. In his late '60s movie and television series, as well as in decades of syndication, he portrayed Batman as a kind and honest character who used wit and humor instead of intimidation to combat crime.

      Alongside his youthful sidekick Dick Grayson (Burt Ward), he maintained a serious tone that allowed plenty of room for a vibrant cast of guest stars to shine.

      The entire production clicked: the writing was clever, the action sequences were more impressive than anything else on television at the time, and the self-aware silliness (BAM! SOCK! POW!) granted serious viewers the freedom to relax and enjoy themselves.

      Adam West played a crucial role in bringing it all together. He was a gracious lead who never overshadowed the material and wore his ridiculous costume with style. We adore him and the Batman television series.

      Robert Pattinson

      Lt. James Gordon (Jeffrey Wright) tries to rein in The Batman (Robert Pattinson). Photo by Jonathan Olley/DC Comics – Credit: C/O

      Robert Pattinson delivers perhaps the most angsty interpretation among all Batman actors. There exists a constant tension between the Batman persona and the Bruce Wayne identity, and Pattinson’s portrayal truly reflects a character who is lost and directionless.

      Matt Reeves’ 2022 film The Batman strongly emphasizes the detective aspect of Batman, portraying him mainly as a crime solver who resorts to his gadgets and skills solely for the grim task of defeating villains.

      There’s a possibility that Robert Pattinson may emerge as the top Batman actor in the future. We’ll have to wait and see how the upcoming Batman films unfold.

      Also Read: All 10 Batman Movies Ranked from Worst to Best

      Michael Keaton

      Michael