1. Alan Napier
Alan Napier first took on the role of Alfred Pennyworth in the first season of the 1966 Batman TV series, before reprising it for two subsequent seasons and the big-budget feature film. An impressive run, no doubt, but as far as impressive accolades go, the length of that tenure comes second only to the strength of his actual performance.
A warm, light-hearted spirit who absolutely relished the absurdity of the crime-fighting world, Napier’s Alfred was as colorful as the show itself and he was nothing short of a joy to watch on-screen. From constantly answering the Bat-Phone to dressing up as Batman on occasion, he wasn’t afraid to get involved in the action and was willing to do anything for his Dynamic Duo.
When Napier’s role was somewhat increased in the third season (due to the fact that Alfred discovered Batgirl’s true identity and became an accomplice of sorts for her), he continued to thrive and brought much vibrancy to the newcomer’s storyline.
While the tongue-in-cheek nature of the show often prevented it from delving into the emotional backstory between Alfred and Bruce, the rapport between Napier and Adam West made it clear that that Bruce absolutely thought the world of his surrogate father – and vice versa.
With his large spectacles and admirably comic-accurate mustache, he added to the legacy that William Austin started, becoming the new archetypal figure of what Alfred Pennyworth should look like and, given everything that was happening in this world, it was nice to see that he still had time to dust the Bat-cave and polish the Bat-poles – you know, actual butlery stuff.
Kind, honorable and “a gentleman’s gentleman”, there’s no understating what Napier accomplished with his infectiously optimistic turn as the character. For an entire generation, he was Alfred – the only Alfred – and, “if I may be so bold, Sir” for many, he still is.
Which Alfred Pennyworth is your favorite? Did you enjoy the most recent additions to the Alfred legacy in The Batman and Pennyworth?