Ranking All 7 Batman Actors From Least to Most Impressive

      Here’s a ranking of all seven live-action Batman actors, alongside our exploration of what constitutes an outstanding Batman performance.

      We are excluding animated Batman actors, like the remarkable Kevin Conroy, although we hold them in high regard. Our focus is strictly on live-action portrayals as voice acting differs from on-screen acting.

      It’s important to note that opinions on this matter are subjective, and Batman enthusiasts might have strong feelings, so feel free to share your disagreements.

      Now, here are the seven Batman actors ranked from least to most impressive, starting with (apologies) the least favorable:

      George Clooney

      Warner Bros.

      No one has been as critical of George Clooney’s Batman as Clooney himself. He portrayed the Caped Crusader in the 1997 film Batman & Robin and has given it a brutal critique.

      “When I say Batman & Robin is a terrible film, I always say, ‘I was terrible in it,’” Clooney told GQ. “Because I was, number one. But it also lets you say, ‘Having admitted I was awful, I can state that none of these other elements worked either.’ You know? Lines like ‘Freeze, Freeze!’”

      He has a point: No actor could have succeeded in the role as written. Plus, the Batsuit's nipples didn’t help matters.

      Ben Affleck

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

      We’re aware this might provoke the Snyderverse fans, but here we go.

      Ben Affleck had the potential to be the best Batman: He possesses the stature to be striking, along with the emotive range needed to reflect the complexity of a billionaire by day and a vigilante by night, caught between two identities: Which one is the façade, Bruce or Batman?

      However, the films featuring Affleck as Batman — Batman v Superman and Justice League (both the Joss Whedon and Zack Snyder cuts) — were, at best, disorganized and leaned too heavily into a dark, militaristic version of Batman.

      They left little room for nuance or exploration of one of literature's most compelling characters.

      Val Kilmer

      Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      The late Val Kilmer had an effortless charm that made him one of the best Bruce Waynes: He convincingly portrayed a man breezing through everyday interactions to focus on his more significant nightly endeavors.

      Kilmer also suited the role visually — we appreciate when Batman is not overly muscular, letting his gadgets and detective skills take precedence.

      His Batman film, Batman Forever, was largely overshadowed by Jim Carrey’s over-the-top Riddler, which limited Kilmer’s opportunities. Regardless, we have a lot of admiration for Val Kilmer and wish he had starred in more Batman films.

      Also Read: 7 Peculiar Aspects of the Batman and Robin Relationship No One Discusses

      Adam West

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

      For many years, Adam West was synonymous with Batman — and he was a truly delightful one. In his iconic ’60s movie and television series, and in syndication for decades afterward, he portrayed Batman as a good-hearted, straightforward individual who relied on wit and humor rather than intimidation to combat crime.

      He and his youthful partner Dick Grayson (Burt Ward) played it earnestly, creating space for an array of vibrant guest stars to shine.

      Everything meshed perfectly: The clever writing featured engaging twists, the action sequences were among the best on television at the time, and the self-aware silliness (BAM! SOCK! POW!) allowed serious viewers to relax and enjoy the show.

      Adam West was pivotal in anchoring it all. He was a generous lead, never too flamboyant, and had the confidence to wear a whimsical costume with style. We cherish him and the Batman television series.

      Robert Pattinson

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

      Robert Pattinson delivers arguably the most brooding interpretation among Batman actors. There’s a constant struggle between embracing the Batman persona or the Bruce Wayne identity, and Pattinson’s portrayal reflects a character who is truly confused. He’s lost and aimless, which resonates authentically.

      Matt Reeves’ 2022 film The Batman emphasizes the detective aspect of Batman, presenting him primarily as a crime solver who uses his gadgets and skills solely to execute the grim task of apprehending criminals.

      There’s potential for Robert Pattinson to emerge as the best Batman actor — we’ll see how the forthcoming Batman films unfold.

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

      Michael Keaton

      Michael Keaton in Batman Returns. Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      It’s hard to fathom now, but the announcement of Michael Keaton as the Caped