Ranking All 7 Batman Actors from Least to Most Impressive (Starting with Clooney as the Lowest)

      Here’s a ranking of all seven Batman actors — our effort to analyze what defines a great Batman performance.

      We are excluding voice actors from animated adaptations, such as the remarkable Kevin Conroy, as we hold them in high regard. Our focus is solely on live-action portrayals, since voice acting and on-screen acting require different skills.

      These rankings are subjective, and opinions about Batman can be quite passionate, so feel free to share your thoughts if you disagree.

      Now, here is a ranking of the seven Batman actors from worst to best, starting with (apologies) the least favored:

      **George Clooney**

      Warner Bros.

      We can’t be harsher on George Clooney’s Batman than he has been himself. He portrayed the Caped Crusader in one film, 1997’s Batman & Robin, and has openly criticized his performance.

      “When I say Batman & Robin is a terrible film, I always state, ‘I was terrible in it,’” Clooney told GQ. “Because I was, number one. But also because it allows me to point out that none of the other elements worked either. You know? Lines like ‘Freeze, Freeze!’”

      He makes a valid point: No actor could have succeeded with the role as it was written.

      **Ben Affleck**

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

      We know this may provoke the ire of the Snyderverse fans, but here we go.

      Ben Affleck could have been the best Batman: He possesses the stature to be intimidating, along with the emotional depth to portray the complexity of a billionaire by day and a vigilante by night, struggling with his dual identities: Which 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 messy, leaning heavily into a grim and militant interpretation of the character.

      They offered little opportunity for subtlety or exploration of one of the 20th century’s most significant literary figures.

      **Val Kilmer**

      Warner Bros. – Credit: C/O

      The recently deceased Val Kilmer brought an effortless charm that made him one of the finest Bruce Waynes: He convincingly portrayed a man who casually engages in daily interactions while focusing on his more important night-time endeavors.

      Kilmer also suited the role of Batman — we prefer the version of Batman that isn’t overly muscular, relying on his gadgets and detective skills for effectiveness.

      His film, Batman Forever, is overpowered by Jim Carrey’s flamboyant Riddler, which left Kilmer with little to contribute. We admire Val Kilmer greatly and wish he had starred in more Batman films.

      **Adam West**

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

      For many years, Adam West defined Batman — and delightfully so. In his late ’60s film and TV series, and for years after in syndication, he portrayed Batman as a kind-hearted, straightforward character who used wit and humor rather than intimidation to combat crime.

      He and his young sidekick Dick Grayson (Burt Ward) played it straight, allowing for a vibrant array of guest stars to shine.

      The entire production was successful: The writing was clever, the action sequences were groundbreaking for television at the time, and the self-aware silliness (BAM! SOCK! POW!) allowed serious viewers to relax and enjoy.

      Adam West was crucial in tying it all together. He was a generous lead, never overly showy, and wore the whimsical costume with style. We cherish him and the Batman TV series.

      **Robert Pattinson**

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

      Robert Pattinson delivers perhaps the most brooding interpretation among all the Batman actors. There’s a constant struggle between prioritizing the Batman identity or the Bruce Wayne persona, and Pattinson’s rendition of Wayne/Batman embodies this confusion. He’s lost and aimless, which resonates deeply.

      Matt Reeves’ 2022 film The Batman emphasizes the detective aspect, depicting him largely as a crime solver who resorts to gadgets and tricks solely to perform the grim task of capturing criminals.

      Robert Pattinson might eventually be regarded as the best of all Batman portrayals. We’ll see how his future appearances unfold.

      **Michael Keaton**

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

      It’s surprising to recall that when Michael Keaton was cast as the Caped Crusader in Tim Burton’s 1989 Batman, it was met with widespread skepticism: He wasn’t the typical imposing figure and was predominantly known for comedic roles like Mr. Mom.

      However, Keaton excelled as Bruce Wayne: Calculating, quirky, and tormented. Whereas some Batman actors present Batman