Hello to all our readers / DC Fans and, in particular for this series of items, fans of Batman.
I have been thinking of creating this series for the site for quite a while now as the classic Batman television series of the 1960’s was my first live action introduction to the character. Those readers of a certain age will most likely say the same.
As a young one, seeing this series appear on UK tv was a real treat. I don’t remember the channel it appeared on but, oh my, it didn’t have leave an impact and is one of the main reasons that The Dark Knight (although not so dark during this series) is my favourite superhero from any universe.
And therefore, the reason for this new series I’ll be putting together over the next few months (well, I say few months, due to the number of episodes – 120 – this may take longer than a few months).
I’ll be taking a short look at the episodes, giving a rundown of the weeks adventure and telling you all my views on the episode itself and the villains and guest stars of the week.
I’m also going to be asking my Fine Feathered Finks at DC World to give me their own thoughts on episodes so you can read what they have to say. We will also put out a message on Twitter and you can give me your own thoughts on what you think of the episodes that we are talking about that week. All of us at DC World enjoy interacting with readers of the site and all fans of DC Comics/TV/Movies etc so it would be great to hear from you through this series.
About the show
As you will all know, the Batman television series was released in the 1960’s, in fact running for 120 episodes from January 12th 1966 through to March 14th 1968.
It starred one of my heroes in the titular role, Mr Adam West (may he R.I.P) made such an impression as Batman / Bruce Wayne, it is difficult to see anyone else take on this role. One thing that always sticks out in my mind Adam’s first scene as Bruce Wayne talking to guests and we get a little snippet of dialogue where he talks about his parents being murdered by “dastardly criminals”. From memory it’s the only time we really get anything about why Bruce Wayne does what he does as Batman (if I’m incorrect I’ll apologise) but, for me, it always sticks in my mind despite it being, what seems like, an off the cuff comment. Throughout the show though, Mr West was wonderful, putting in a performance that will be forever remembered and one that has influenced many.
Robin was played by the wonderful Burt Ward (winner of our July ’18 Hall of Fame vote). Again, his performance is one of the most memorable in television history, something we could say about many of the cast of this show. Again, a big influence on many since, especially his “Holy…………, Batman” quotes. Just, brilliant.
Then there is the rest of the Bat-Team (ok, so that’s not a real thing but, well, you know). Alan Napier as the loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth – again, a performance that will always be remembered, in particular his turn as Batman in one episode.
Commissioner Gordon, played by Neil Hamilton, of course has to be present, although like his Gotham version, no ‘tache. Still, played with vigour throughout.
Stafford Repp as Chief O’ Hara (is he the light version of Bullock in this show??), now this is where there may be a little controversy over how he was depicted in the show. Irish, yes, but really as an incompetent police chief. I loved the fella though.
Later on in the show we then had Yvonne Craig arrive in the show as the good Commissioner’s daughter, Barbara Gordon, also known as Batgirl, coming with her own seriously 60’s theme.
The villains, all as memorable as the main cast. Caesar Romero as The Joker, Burgess Meredith, the stunning Julie Newmar as Catwoman as the Penguin and my personal favourite, Frank Gorshin as The Riddler. Ask anyone about the Batman series and they will always remember these 4 characters will always come up in conversation.
On the subject of these guys, the video below was taken by DC World writer Erin (my thanks to Erin for this), which shows Lee Merriweather (Catwoman from ’66 movie) during a tribute to the late Adam West at LA Comic Con. The video also goes on to show Burt Ward talk about his bond with Adam West. Wonderful
There’s also rest of the rogues gallery, the number of special guest stars and you have a show that jam packed with many people you’ll recognise.
With the catchiest theme tune of all time, title credits that everyone knows, the most recognisable Batmobile ever seen and we have a series that can Kapow, Whack and Biff its way through anything.
I’m sure I’ve missed something within this so my apologies. However, this will be a wonderful trip down memory lane for us older readers and a great experience for the younger ones who may not have seen much of the show. I also hope that you’ll enjoy reading the articles as I am looking forward to putting these together. There’s a lot to get through (120 episodes) and I’m hope to have the first instalment up next weekend…
“Same Bat-Time, same Bat-Channel”
The first episodes that we’ll be talking about are:
“HI DIDDLE DIDDLE” & “SMACK IN THE MIDDLE” – So, get watching get your thoughts in below, on Twitter to @DC_ComicsGeek or @_DCWorld or you can email me at john@dcworld.org.uk.
Cheers, John
