Ranking All 7 Batman Actors from Least to Most Impressive

      Here are all seven live-action Batman actors ranked, as we explore what contributes to an outstanding Batman performance.

      We are excluding animated Batman performers—such as the remarkable Kevin Conroy—whom we highly regard. Our focus is on live-action portrayals, as voice acting and on-screen acting require different skills.

      This topic is subjective, and Batman fandom is strong, so feel free to share your thoughts if you disagree with our rankings.

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

      **George Clooney**

      Warner Bros.

      George Clooney has been his own harshest critic when it comes to his portrayal of Batman. He starred as the Caped Crusader in one movie, 1997’s Batman & Robin, and has offered a brutal critique of his performance.

      "When I say Batman & Robin is a terrible film, I always add, ‘I was terrible in it,’” Clooney told GQ. “Because, number one, I was. But it also allows me to say, ‘Since I admit I wasn’t good, I can also say that none of these other elements worked either.' You know? Lines like ‘Freeze, Freeze!’”

      He has a point: No actor could have succeeded with the role as it was scripted, and the inclusion of nipples on the Batsuit certainly didn’t help.

      **Ben Affleck**

      Warner Bros.

      While we may invoke the displeasure of the Snyderverse supporters, here we go.

      Ben Affleck had the potential to be the best Batman: he has the physique to be intimidating and the emotional depth as an actor to portray the wit, intelligence, and agony of a billionaire by day and vigilante by night, caught between his dual identities: Which one is the true persona, Bruce or Batman?

      However, the films featuring Affleck’s Batman—Batman v Superman and Justice League (both versions by Joss Whedon and Zack Snyder)—were disorganized at best, overly leaning into a gritty, serious, and militaristic depiction of Batman.

      They left little room for the complexity or exploration of one of the most iconic literary characters of the 20th century.

      **Val Kilmer**

      Warner Bros.

      The late Val Kilmer brought an effortless charm that made him one of the finest Bruce Waynes: he convincingly portrayed a man casually navigating his daily life while focusing on more serious endeavors at night.

      Kilmer also appeared fitting as Batman—his less bulky physique allows room for his equipment and detective skills to shine.

      In his Batman film, Batman Forever, Jim Carrey’s over-the-top Riddler, unfortunately, overshadowed Kilmer, limiting his opportunities to shine. Nevertheless, we have great admiration for Val Kilmer and wish he had portrayed Batman more often.

      **Adam West**

      ABC – Credit: 20th Century Fox

      For many years, Adam West defined Batman—and he did so in a thoroughly delightful way. In his movie and TV series from the late ‘60s and in the years that followed in syndication, he depicted Batman as a kind-hearted, straightforward character who relied on his intellect and humor rather than intimidation to tackle crime.

      He and his youthful partner Dick Grayson (Burt Ward) played their roles earnestly, allowing for a lively range of guest stars to take center stage.

      The entire production just worked: the writing was full of clever twists, the action sequences were more engaging than anything else on television at the time, and the self-aware silliness (BAM! SOCK! POW!) encouraged viewers to sit back and enjoy the fun.

      Adam West was crucial to the success of the show. He was a generous lead who never overacted and had the confidence to wear a silly costume with style. We cherish him and the Batman series.

      **Robert Pattinson**

      Photo by Jonathan Olley/DC Comics

      Robert Pattinson presents perhaps the most brooding portrayal among all Batman actors. He struggles with whether to emphasize the Batman persona or the Bruce Wayne identity, and Pattinson’s rendition of Wayne/Batman is characterized by confusion and aimlessness, which feels authentic.

      Matt Reeves’ 2022 film, The Batman, heavily emphasizes the detective aspect of Batman, showcasing him primarily as a problem-solver who utilizes his gadgets and skills merely to execute his grim mission of bringing down criminals.

      Robert Pattinson has the potential to become the definitive Batman actor; we'll see how his future performances unfold.

      **Michael Keaton**

      Warner Bros.

      It’s hard to imagine now, but the announcement of Michael Keaton as Batman in Tim Burton’s 1989 film was met with widespread skepticism: he wasn’t muscular and was primarily known for comedic roles like Mr. Mom.

      However, Keaton emerged as a fantastic Bruce Wayne: calculating, quirky, and troubled. Unlike some Batman actors who portray Batman as the real individual and Bruce Wayne as the façade, Keaton presented Bruce Wayne first and Batman second