All 13 Batman TV shows ranked from worst to best
2. Batman
Holy classic television, Batman! The 1966-1968 Batman TV series was a game-changer that introduced the Caped Crusader to a whole new generation of fans. While the show may have been campy and over-the-top, it left an indelible mark on pop culture and changed the way fans saw Batman forever.
So, what made the 1966-1968 series so special? For starters, it was a departure from the darker, brooding versions of Batman that had come before. Instead, the show embraced its campiness and leaned into the more lighthearted aspects of the character. The result was a show that was pure fun from start to finish, filled with bright colors, wacky villains, and of course, plenty of “POW!”s and “BAM!”s.
But what really set the 1966-1968 series apart was its cast. Adam West’s portrayal of Batman/Bruce Wayne was equal parts heroic and tongue-in-cheek, while Burt Ward’s Robin was the perfect sidekick, always ready with a quip or a groan-worthy pun. The show’s villains were just as memorable, with Burgess Meredith’s Penguin, Cesar Romero’s Joker, and Frank Gorshin’s Riddler all delivering iconic performances that are still remembered to this day.
Of course, the show wasn’t without its flaws. The special effects were often cheesy, and the writing could be corny at times. But these shortcomings only added to the charm of the series, making it a beloved classic that fans still adore to this day.
The 1966-1968 series may not have been a faithful adaptation of the comics, but it didn’t need to be. By embracing its campy, over-the-top style, the show created a version of the Caped Crusader that was fun, lighthearted, and entertaining. It was a show that changed the way fans saw the character and paved the way for future adaptations to come. So, whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Batman, don’t miss out on this classic series. It’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face and leave you saying “holy classic television, Batman!”