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The role of DC’s Batman has gone to many an iconic actor during the live-action run of the character. From the most recent Robert Pattinson to Christian Bale, to Michael Keaton, the character has been played by some iconic names, as fans await what James Gunn now has in store.
Regardless, Keaton’s flirtation with the Gotham superhero began back in 1989, as Tim Burton brought to life his darker version of the character inBatman.Keaton, who was at the time known majorly for his work in comedies, not only brought forth an iconic Batman, he also continues to remain proud of his portrayal, even years later.
This was evident during his 2014 interview while promoting the iconicBirdman.Keaton claimed that he had no jealousy towards Ben Affleck, who had just been announced as Zack Snyder’s Batman.
Michael Keaton had a simple reason for the lack of jealousy towards Ben Affleck
The portrayal of Batman for any actor means that they are now part of an elite group of artists who have had the honor of bringing to life one of the most-beloved superheroes of all time. In the last half a century, there have been plenty of iconic men who have worn the cape, with some finding more success than others.
Michael Keatonis firmly a part of the former group and came up with a portrayal that many still consider to be the very best. Of course, he also had the support of legendary director Tim Burton, as Keaton was Batman in two movies before eventually being replaced by Val Kilmer.
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Still, merely the fact that he ever got to play the superhero means that he has no jealousy towards other actors who have done the same. During the interview, he was asked if Ben Affleck’s announcement as Batman irked him, but the actor had a straightforward response: (via Looper)
No. Do you know why? Because I’m Batman. I’m very secure in that.
And of course, he has every right to be ‘secure’ with his portrayal, considering the kind of success he received. Keaton also reprised his role in 2023’sThe Flash,which flirted with the idea of multiple Batmen in different universes.
Michael Keaton is proud of his work as Batman
Keaton’s time as Batman was initially met with skepticism simply because he was known for his work in comedy movies. Projects such asBeatlejuiceandThe Dream Teammeant that he was majorly seen as a comic artist. And yet, the portrayal eventually won him unimaginable plaudits as his return in 2023’sThe Flashwas also celebrated by fans.
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Regardless, while the cameo proved to be a major hit, it came as a result of Keaton being curious about what a potential return ‘might be like.’:
[I] was curious what it would be like after this many years,” Keaton remarked about his 2023 return, which comes over 30 years after “Batman Returns.
The actor is clearly proud of the portrayal and the character choices he made during his tenure, and continues to remain proud of his run:
I’m proud of the choice I made, in terms of how to play Batman.
Needless to say, fans will thoroughly agree. Keaton’s Batman movies are available to be streamed on Amazon Prime.
Rishabh Bhatnagar
Editor/Reviewer
Articles Published :315
Rishabh Bhatnagar is an Entertainment and pop culture journalist/editor with Fandom Wire. He has more than 6 years of experience working for multiple major platforms and is himself an avid consumer of worthwhile content. A natural storyteller, Rishabh has a unique way with words and is always looking to improve, as a storyteller, writer, and a journalist.
