All 13 Batman TV shows ranked from worst to best

1. Batman: The Animated Series

Batman: The Animated Series is the ultimate Dark Knight experience. First airing in 1992, the show immediately set the bar for what a Batman adaptation could be. From the iconic opening sequence to the haunting score by Shirley Walker, the show was a masterclass in mood and atmosphere.

The dark, brooding tone was perfectly suited to the Dark Knight’s world, and the show’s use of shadow and light gave it a distinctive visual style that has influenced countless other adaptations. But it wasn’t just the aesthetics.

The show’s writing was top-notch, with each episode telling a self-contained story that explored different facets of Batman’s world. From the tragic backstory of Mr. Freeze to the twisted love affair of Harley Quinn and the Joker, the show was unafraid to dive deep into the psyche of its characters and explore the darker side of human nature.

Of course, no discussion of Batman: The Animated Series would be complete without mentioning the voice cast. Kevin Conroy’s portrayal of Batman/Bruce Wayne is widely regarded as the definitive version of the character, while Mark Hamill’s Joker is one of the most iconic villains in pop culture history. The supporting cast, including Loren Lester as Robin and Efrem Zimbalist Jr. as Alfred, was equally stellar, giving the show a level of acting talent that was unmatched in other animated series of the time.

Despite its short, three-season run, the show’s influence can still be felt today. The show’s success paved the way for other animated series like Superman: The Animated Series and Justice League, and its style and tone have been emulated by countless other Batman adaptations. Even in the live-action movies, the influence of Batman: The Animated Series can be seen in the darker, more serious tone that has become the standard for the character.

Batman: The Animated Series set the tone for everything that was to come, and its influence can still be felt over 25 years later. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the character for the first time, this show is an absolute must-watch.