Batman is a gift that keeps on giving, from comics to video games, but the tv shows are second to none, but which one is the best?
If you’re a fan of DC Comics, chances are that you’re also a fan of Batman. The Dark Knight is arguably the face of the DC universe, and he’s appeared in countless movies, shows, and cartoons over the years. With his brooding personality, iconic gadgets, and memorable rogues gallery, Batman has become a pop culture icon and a money-making machine for DC.
Batman has been a staple of the DC universe since his first appearance in Detective Comics #27 in 1939. Since then, he’s become one of the most recognizable superheroes in the world, with his signature cape and cowl inspiring countless cosplayers and Halloween costumes. With his gritty noir-inspired stories, Batman has become a favorite of both comic book fans and mainstream audiences alike.
But The Dark Knight’s popularity isn’t just limited to the comics. Over the years, he’s appeared in several movies, starting with the campy 1966 film starring Adam West as the Caped Crusader. More recent movies like Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy and Zack Snyder’s Snyderverse have taken a darker and more realistic approach to the character, cementing Batman’s status as one of the most versatile superheroes in film.
The Dark Knight’s influence isn’t limited to the big screen. He’s also been a fixture of TV shows and cartoons, with countless spinoffs and adaptations over the years. Heck, we’re even set to get The Penguin a (The) Batman spinoff series on Max. Batman has shown up in nearly every form of media imaginable. We all have that debate… Which shows rank among the best? Well, we answer that for you.
13. Gotham Knights
Kicking off the list is Gotham Knights. The first season of the show, which premiered on March 14, 2023, will conclude on June 27, 2023. This new show has generated a lot of buzz among DC fans, but some viewers are left with mixed feelings about the series.
The show takes place in the aftermath of Bruce Wayne’s death, leaving his adopted son Turner Hayes (played by Oscar Morgan) to be framed for the murder of Batman. In addition, the children of some of Batman’s enemies have also been framed for the murder. The show follows this group of individuals as they team up to become the next generation of saviors known as the Gotham Knights. The series is written by Chad Fiveash, James Stoteraux, and Natalie Abrams, and produced by Greg Berlanti and Sarah Schechter.
While many people are enjoying the show, some are saying it is missing something. Mainly, the show fuels the perception that despite the character’s durability, it’s possible to dip into the Batcave once too often. Critics have cited the flat dialogue and lackluster performances and noted that the initial episodes are notable simply for how rote they are, whether in terms of plotting or action sequences. There’s no spark.
The show has great storytelling potential, bringing in the children of Batman’s enemies, but fans of DC might turn elsewhere to get their TV Dark Knight-adjacent fix. Even ignoring all the baggage surrounding the series and the likelihood of its imminent cancellation, Gotham Knights is a thoroughly underwhelming Dark Knight series from a network that has produced far better.
Despite the mixed reviews, some fans have found the show enjoyable, with its dark and mysterious tone, humor, and campiness. They feel that this should be the direction the CW goes in and that the show deserves a second season. Whether you’re a DC fan or just looking for something new to watch, Gotham Knights may be worth checking out.
12. Batwoman
When Batwoman premiered in 2019, fans were excited to see a new take on the iconic superhero. And while the show may not have made the cut as one of the top Batman TV shows, it still has a loyal fan base who love the show for its compelling characters, intriguing storylines, and powerful themes.
One reason why fans love Batwoman is the show’s focus on representation. The series features a lesbian superhero in the lead role, played by Ruby Rose in the first season and Javicia Leslie in the second. This representation is important to many fans who have been waiting to see themselves represented on screen, and the show has been praised for its handling of LGBTQ+ issues.
Make no mistake about it, Batwoman’s strong female characters helped the show immensely. From Kate Kane (Rose) to Ryan Wilder (Leslie) to Alice (Rachel Skarsten), the show features complex and multifaceted female characters who are more than just love interests or sidekicks. These characters are given agency and their own storylines, which is refreshing to see in a superhero show.
However, the show did face some challenges, particularly when Ruby Rose left the show after the first season. Fans were disappointed to see her go, but Javicia Leslie’s character, Ryan Wilder, stepped up and took the torch. Leslie’s performance as Batwoman has been praised by fans and critics alike, and her addition to the show has breathed new life into the series.
11. Birds of Prey
The cult following of Birds of Prey wasn’t enough to make it one of the top five greatest Batman shows of all time, but it still has a dedicated cult following who love the show for its unique take on the Dark Knight universe and its strong female characters.
The show takes place in the future, where Batman has retired and his daughter, Helena Kyle (Ashley Scott), has taken up the mantle of Huntress. She teams up with Oracle (Dina Meyer), the former Batgirl who is now confined to a wheelchair, and Dinah Lance (Rachel Skarsten), a young girl with psychic powers who becomes the Black Canary. Together, the three women form the Birds of Prey and fight crime in Gotham City.
Before Batwoman, Birds of Prey was a show focused on strong, complex female characters. The Birds of Prey are all unique individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses, and they’re not just there to be love interests or sidekicks. They’re heroes in their own right, and the show does a great job of highlighting their individual struggles and triumphs.
Birds of Prey was a unique take on the Bat-universe. The show takes place in a future where the Dark Knight has retired, which allows the writers to explore new and interesting storylines without being tied down to the canon of the comics or previous adaptations. Birds of Prey worked better as a movie. Let’s hope we get to see a sequel.
10. Pennyworth
Pennyworth is a television series that explores the backstory of Alfred Pennyworth, the legendary butler of Bruce Wayne’s Batman. While the series might not be as notable as the shows in the top 10, it has still won over fans with its unique take on the franchise and strong performances from the cast.
The show takes place in an alternate universe where Alfred Pennyworth (Jack Bannon) is a former British SAS soldier who starts his own security company in London in the 1960s. Along with his friends, Thomas Wayne (Ben Aldridge) and Martha Kane (Emma Paetz), he gets involved in a conspiracy that threatens to upend the British government.
We all love Pennyworth for its outside-the-box approach to the franchise. Rather than focusing on Batman or even his villains, the show explores the backstory of one of the most beloved characters in the DC canon: Alfred Pennyworth. We get to see Alfred’s life before he became Bruce Wayne’s butler.
Jack Bannon kills it as the young Alfred Pennyworth, and he’s backed up by a strong supporting cast that includes Ben Aldridge and Emma Paetz. The show’s writing and direction are also top-notch, which makes for a compelling and engaging viewing experience.
9. Titans
If you’re a fan of the Bat-family, chances are you’ve heard of Titans. This show promised to give us a deeper look into the world of Batman, with Robin, Batgirl, and other familiar faces taking center stage. But while the show itself is fantastic, it’s not really about Batman. And let’s be honest, who cares about Batman’s sidekicks without the Dark Knight himself?
Titans follows the adventures of Robin, a.k.a. Dick Grayson, as he strikes out on his own to escape Batman’s shadow. Along the way, he teams up with other young heroes like Raven, Starfire, and Beast Boy, forming a ragtag team of misfits who fight to save the world from evil. But let’s be clear, this is not a show about Batman.
Sure, Batman is mentioned a lot. And we do get to see a grizzled, older version of the Dark Knight played by Iain Glen. But this is not the Batman we know and love. He’s barely in the show, and when he does show up, he’s not exactly at his best. Sorry, Iain Glen, your performance was great, but this version of Batman just doesn’t cut it.
So while Titans is an absolutely fantastic show that gives us a deeper look into the Bat-family than any other Batman show has ever done, it’s not about Batman. And let’s be real, that’s what we all really want. We want to see the Caped Crusader in all his glory, not just his sidekicks running around without him.
8. Beware the Batman
Beware the Batman is one such show that deserves a second chance. This series aired on Cartoon Network for one season from 2013-2014, with only 26 episodes produced. While it may not have had the staying power of some of its predecessors, it was still a great show in its own right.
The show featured a younger version of Batman, one who was still learning the ropes of being a superhero. He was joined by his new partner, Katana, a skilled martial artist and swordswoman. Together, they faced off against classic villains like Anarky, Magpie, and Ra’s al Ghul.
Beware the Batman was a departure from some of the other shows that had come before it. It featured a more modern and stylized animation style, with CGI animation that made the action scenes feel more dynamic and fast-paced. The show also took inspiration from the lesser-known Batman comics, like Grant Morrison’s run on the character, which helped to give it a fresh and unique feel.
One of the most interesting aspects of the show was its portrayal of Batman’s relationship with his allies. While other shows have focused on Batman’s more well-known allies, like Robin and Batgirl, Beware the Batman introduced a new character in Katana who added a new dynamic to the show. The two had a mentor-mentee relationship that helped to flesh out both characters and make them more relatable.
Beware the Batman did not last long enough but it was still a great show in its own right.
7. Batman: The Brave and the Bold
Batman: The Brave and the Bold was an animated TV show that aired for three seasons, but it still managed to captivate fans of all ages with its unique approach to the Dark Knight mythos. The show stood out from its predecessors by presenting a more lighthearted take on the Caped Crusader, with more emphasis on humor and fun.
The show was different from the dark and gritty Batman: The Animated Series and its spin-offs, which had established a more serious tone for the character. The Brave and the Bold, on the other hand, embraced the campy and over-the-top aspects of the Batman comics of the 1960s and 70s, with a colorful and vibrant animation style that harkened back to the classic Silver Age of comics.
The show also had a unique storytelling structure, with each episode presenting a new team-up between Batman and another hero from the DC Universe. From classic heroes like Aquaman, Wonder Woman, and the Flash, to more obscure characters like Plastic Man and the Doom Patrol, the show celebrated the diversity of the DC Universe by showcasing a wide range of characters.
Fans of the show loved its irreverent humor, witty dialogue, and over-the-top action sequences. It was a refreshing departure from the usual brooding and serious portrayal of the Dark Knight. The show also had a strong sense of self-awareness, often poking fun at the absurdity of the comic book world while still embracing its inherent charm.
6. The Batman
It’s time to don your cape and cowl because we’re taking a trip down memory lane to revisit one of the most beloved Batman shows of all time: The Batman. This animated series may have ended over a decade ago, but its impact on the Batman mythos is still being felt today. From its slick animation style to its dark and brooding take on the Dark Knight, the series set itself apart from other superhero shows and captured the hearts of fans everywhere.
One of the standout features of The Batman was its unique approach to character design. The show’s art style was heavily influenced by Japanese animation, giving the characters a sleek and stylized look that was unlike anything seen before. From Batman’s bat-shaped cowl to the Joker’s wild green hair, the characters were instantly recognizable and visually striking.
But it wasn’t just the animation that made the show stand out. The show’s take on the Dark Knight himself was a departure from the established canon, with a younger and more inexperienced Dark Knight patrolling the streets of Gotham City. This gave the writers plenty of room to explore his origins and early adventures, as well as his relationships with other characters like Commissioner Gordon and the Joker.
Fans of the show also appreciated its darker and more serious tone, which was a departure from the more campy and lighthearted portrayals of the Dark Knight that had come before. The show tackled mature themes like addiction, loss, and redemption, while still delivering the action-packed superhero adventures that fans had come to expect from the Caped Crusader.
The show may have ended over a decade ago, but its legacy lives on, inspiring new generations of Batman fans and reminding us all why we fell in love with the Dark Knight in the first place.
5. Gotham
When it comes to the world of Batman, fans have seen it all: from the campy 1960s show to the dark and brooding Christopher Nolan films. But when Gotham premiered in 2014, fans were treated to a unique take on the Batman universe that managed to captivate audiences for five seasons.
One of the biggest draws of Gotham was its cast. Led by Ben McKenzie as James Gordon, the show was filled with talented actors who brought the larger-than-life characters of the DC universe to life in new and interesting ways. Robin Lord Taylor’s portrayal of Oswald Cobblepot (a.k.a. The Penguin) was a standout, as was Cameron Monaghan’s turn as a proto-Joker. The show also gave us new takes on classic characters like Selina Kyle (played by Camren Bicondova) and Edward Nygma (Cory Michael Smith), who would go on to become The Riddler.
But what really set Gotham apart from other adaptations was its unique spin on the mythology. Rather than focusing on Bruce Wayne’s journey to becoming the Dark Knight, the show instead centered on James Gordon’s rise through the ranks of the Gotham City Police Department. It was a refreshing change of pace that allowed the show to explore different corners of the Batman universe, introducing new villains and telling stories that hadn’t been seen before.
Of course, with a unique approach comes some challenges. One of the biggest criticisms of Gotham was its continuity, or lack thereof. The show played fast and loose with the timeline, introducing characters and storylines that didn’t quite fit into the established canon. But for many fans, the show’s willingness to take risks was part of its charm. By straying from the beaten path, Gotham was able to create a world all its own, one that was as engaging as it was unpredictable.
Whether you’re a diehard DC fan or just looking for an entertaining show to binge-watch, Gotham is definitely worth checking out. It may not be a part of the established Batman canon, but it’s still one of the best Batman shows ever created.
4. The New Batman Adventures
In the late ’90s, something special happened – The New Batman Adventures aired on television and it quickly became a fan favorite. Which is why it comes in as No. 4.
In all fairness The New Batman Adventures was a continuation of Batman: The Animated Series. While the original series was critically acclaimed, it was aimed at a younger audience. The New Batman Adventures, however, was a bit more mature. The stories were darker, the animation was sharper, and the voice acting was top-notch.
One of the things fans loved about the show was the character designs. The original series had a very distinct look, but the new designs were even more stylized. Batman was leaner and more agile, Catwoman was sexier than ever, and the Joker looked more sinister than ever before.
Of course, the show wouldn’t be complete without a stellar cast of voice actors. Kevin Conroy reprised his role as Batman, and he was joined by a talented group of performers, including Mark Hamill as the Joker, Arleen Sorkin as Harley Quinn, and Tara Strong as Batgirl. The voice acting was so good that it’s hard to imagine anyone else playing these iconic characters.
But what really made the series stand out was the writing. The show tackled some heavy topics, such as addiction, loss, and grief. It was a show that didn’t talk down to its audience and wasn’t afraid to tackle tough issues. It was a show that respected its viewers and treated them like adults.
If you haven’t seen The New Batman Adventures, it’s definitely worth checking out. It’s a show that stands the test of time and is still considered one of the best Dark Knight adaptations ever created.
3. Batman Beyond
Batman Beyond revolutionized the Dark Knight for a new generation. In the late 90s, Batman was at a crossroads. After Tim Burton’s Gothic interpretation and Joel Schumacher’s neon-lit campiness, the Dark Knight was in need of a reboot. And that’s when Batman Beyond swooped in to save the day. With its dark cyberpunk style, futuristic setting, and new protagonist, Terry McGinnis, the show became an instant classic that gave fans a Dark Knight unlike anything they’d ever seen before.
From the opening credits, it was clear that Batman Beyond was going to be something special. With its thumping electronic beat and stylized visuals, the show announced itself as a new breed of Batman adaptation. Set in the year 2039, the show introduced us to Terry McGinnis, a troubled teenager who stumbled upon the Batcave and took up the mantle of the Dark Knight under the tutelage of an elderly Bruce Wayne. It was a bold move, but it paid off in spades.
One of the biggest draws of the show was its darker tone. While previous adaptations had flirted with darkness, Batman Beyond fully embraced it. The show’s cyberpunk aesthetic lent itself perfectly to a grittier, more mature Batman, and Terry’s struggles with crime, corruption, and his own personal demons made for compelling viewing. It thrilled fans to see a Batman who was more than just a rich guy in a batsuit – he was a hero who had to work hard for every victory.
But it wasn’t just the tone that made Batman Beyond a classic. The show’s creators also took full advantage of the futuristic setting, introducing new technologies and villains that pushed the boundaries of what fans thought they knew. From the Jokerz gang to the villainous Inque, the show’s rogues gallery was as unique and memorable as any in Batman history. And the show’s exploration of themes like artificial intelligence and genetic engineering gave it a depth that set it apart from other animated series.
Batman Beyond was a game-changer for the Dark Knight. Its unique blend of cyberpunk style, mature storytelling, and futuristic setting set a new standard for Batman adaptations, and its influence can still be felt in modern interpretations of the character. We need this remake/continuation now.
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!”
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.