10 Brilliant Facts about Batman

First published 11th August 2020 Robin James

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Batman is easily one of the most famous superheroes of all time. The Dark Knight made his way into our hearts via comic books and has continued to delight us with his adventures ever since in films, tv shows, and more. But how much do you know about the hero of Gotham? Here are some fun facts about Batman!

1. Where did it all begin for the Dark Knight?

Batman is one of DC Comics’ biggest superheroes. He made his first appearance in the now-iconic “Detective Comics #27,” which was published by DC Comics in May 1939. He was the brainchild of Bill Finger and Bob Kane (writer and artist, respectively). He’d eventually make his way to his first TV appearance in the 1960s, played by the legendary Adam West.

2. Hiding in plain sight!

So, who is the man behind the mask? He’s Bruce Wayne, a super-famous billionaire and philanthropist who saw his parents murdered as a child. This event became the driving force behind his crusade against crime. Like Clark Kent, you do really have to wonder how so many people haven’t figured out Batman’s true identity…

3. He’s a different kind of superhero.

Batman actually isn’t that “super” at all. It’s not an insult! One of the key aspects to Batman’s charm is that he has no superpowers! Unlike other superheroes, Batman relies purely on his intellect, physical prowess, martial arts skills, detective abilities, and an array of gadgets and advanced technology. The billions of dollars in the bank really don’t hurt…

4. It’s the Bat-Signal!

Traditionally, Batman is summoned by his famous Bat Signal! It is a spotlight with the bat symbol used by the Gotham City Police Department. It made its very first appearance in “Detective Comics #60” in 1942, and has appeared in several movies and TV shows since.

5. Who is Alfred?

Batman’s butler and confidant is Alfred Pennyworth, who is something of a father figure to Bruce Wayne. He has been with him his entire life, and long may he live! Alfred even received his own TV spin-off series, focusing on his youth (it’s more intriguing than it sounds, honestly!).

6. Get to the Batmobile!

Of course, where would Batman be without his Batmobile? Batman’s iconic car has had various designs throughout the years, each featuring high-tech gadgets and capabilities. It can even split open to reveal a Batbike, too… again, the billions come in handy!

7. What about the Boy Wonder?

Batman’s first sidekick, Robin, was introduced in “Detective Comics #38” in 1940. Robin’s real name is Dick Grayson, a circus performer whose parents were murdered like Bruce Wayne. Robin’s origins have been rebooted many times in the TV shows and movies, however.

8. He’s a key part of the Justice League.

Batman is one of the founding members of DC’s Justice League. This team of superheroes is dedicated to protecting Earth from various threats – though alongside the likes of Wonder Woman and Superman, poor Bats might feel a bit powerless (literally)!

9. His archnemesis isn’t worth joking about.

Most people instantly connect Batman to his most notorious archnemesis, the Joker. The Joker made his debut in “Batman #1” in 1940. He is known for his chaotic nature, obsession with Batman, and his maniacal laugh. However, his true identity has never been agreed upon fully in the Batman canon – though we get an insight into one particular Joker’s backstory in the Joaquin Phoenix movie.

10. The Joker’s not alone.

The truth is that Batman’s enemies are among the best-known supervillains! Over the years, Batman has faced a rogues’ gallery of villains, including Catwoman, Two-Face, The Penguin, The Riddler, Poison Ivy, and Bane, among others (including Condiment King… no, really).

FAQs about Batman

Who is the current Batman?

The current Batman actor at the time of publication is British actor Robert Pattinson. He most recently starred in “The Batman” alongside Zoe Kravitz. However, he’s been played by many different actors many different times.

Who will be Batman after Bruce Wayne?

There is much debate as to who should be Batman after Bruce Wayne passes away or retires! Some believe it should be his trusty sidekick, Robin. However, the animated series “Batman Beyond” established that it will eventually be Terry McGinnis.