Key Takeaways
- Kevin Conroy sets the benchmark for all others.
- Peter Weller excelled as an older, more brutal Batman in The Dark Knight Returns.
- Will Arnett brings depth and humor to his portrayal of Batman in The LEGO Batman Movie.
Kevin Conroy – The G.O.A.T.A.N.O.Kevin Conroy of Batman. His portrayal of Batman’s gruffer, and battle-worn his fair share of tragedy. Yet, he manages to still convey the character’s core personality, making him recognizable. It’s voice is strong, commanding, and most iconic animated series.
As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but acknowledge that since 1939, this iconic figure known as the Caped Crusader has been my constant companion in the battle against crime. He’s undeniably one of the most beloved superheroes out there, gracing various platforms from radio dramas and movies to video games and animated series. It seems like you can’t escape him these days!
To date, approximately 26 different voice artists have brought Batman to life across full-length animated films, video games, and television series. Although live-action portrayals often receive the limelight, exceptional Batman stories can be found in animation, and some of the finest interpretations of the character come from these voice actors. Here’s a compilation of some outstanding Batman voice artists, selected and ranked based on their ability to embody the iconic figure and the unique qualities they brought to the role compared to others.
8 Troy Baker
Brings His Incredible Range To The Caped Crusader
- Most notable appearance: Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Placing a voice actor as accomplished as Troy Baker in a lesser role seems almost blasphemous, yet we have sound justification. Baker has portrayed the same character in “Batman vs Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” and the “Telltale” games. In both ventures, he excelled at bringing the character to life, but failed to set himself apart significantly.
In the movie “Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles,” it appears that the voice actor chose to mimic Conroy’s portrayal of Batman instead of bringing his unique style to the role. In the Telltale games, while his Batman voice is commendable, it doesn’t stand out significantly. Given Baker’s exceptional talent as a voice actor, his Batman performances seem like missed chances for showcasing his full potential. Hopefully, he’ll get an opportunity to play Batman in a project that allows him to display his full range someday.
7 Roger Craig Smith
Specializes In Playing Unique Batmen
- Most notable appearance: Superman: Red Son
Among all actors, none have portrayed Batman as many times as Roger Craig Smith. Although none of his Batmen were standout performances, it’s remarkable that each iteration of the character has a unique sound while still retaining the classic Batman feel. He initially voiced the character in the game Batman: Arkham Origins. Given that Mark Hamill (Conroy) had voiced Batman in the first two Arkham games, Smith faced a challenging task. Nonetheless, he did an impressive job of creating a slightly younger sounding character similar to Conroy’s, and his performance helped make Origins one of the best prequel games ever made.
Since then, Roger Craig Smith has carved out a unique space by portraying quirkier iterations of the character. He delivered an impressive performance as the Russian Batman in “Superman: Red Son” and also starred as the main character in “Batman Ninja”. Unfortunately, in recent times, DC hasn’t provided him with many opportunities to showcase his talents. Instead, he’s been primarily cast to voice a more generic version of the character in the “Batman Unlimited” movies that are primarily designed for marketing toys to kids. With suitable material, Roger Craig Smith has the capacity to reach greater heights.
6 Rino Romano
Played A Younger, Underrated Version Of Batman
- Most notable appearance: The Batman (2004)
The animated series “Batman: The Animated Series” was tough to surpass, but “The Batman” managed to thrive by offering something fresh. Unlike many previous Batman projects that centered around an older, seasoned character, this show took a unique approach. Instead of featuring a battle-hardened Batman, it depicted a young Batman who had been combatting crime for merely three years.
While it may not receive as much recognition as some other Batman series, “The Batman” truly shines, and among the exceptional ensemble, Rino Romano’s portrayal of Batman stands out. His Batman is portrayed as younger and less experienced, yet distinctively Batman. The show ran for four seasons, and throughout this time, Romano skillfully adjusted his voice to reflect the character’s development. Unfortunately, due to his limited experience, it’s challenging to rank him higher. Notably, Romano has only lent his voice to Batman in “The Batman” and “Batman vs Dracula”. Given that these productions were primarily intended for children, Romano never had the opportunity to explore more mature themes, resulting in a slightly less complex Batman character. Here’s hoping that if DC decides to revisit a younger Batman narrative, Romano will be given another chance.
5 Jason O’Mara
Voices The DC Animated Movie Universe’s Batman
- Most notable appearance: DC Animated Universe
For over six years, O’Mara provided an outstanding portrayal of Batman, starting with the 2014 movie “Justice League: War”. His run continued until the universe in which this version of Batman existed was brought to an end in “Justice League Dark: Apokolips War”. Essentially, he voiced the New 52 variant of the character, using those six years to refine and master his portrayal.
It can be reasonably concluded that he did a decent job, not an exceptional one, which is why his ranking falls somewhere in the middle. There’s nothing flawed about O’Mara’s portrayal of Batman; his voice is robust and authoritative, and this interpretation earned its share of moving scenes. However, unlike other top-tier performances on this list, there’s nothing particularly remarkable about O’Mara’s voice acting. He delivered a standard Batman that fans appreciated. Despite his appearances in some of the finest DC Universe Animated films, O’Mara’s ranking remains mid-level.
4 Will Arnett
Adds An Impressive Level Of Depth To A Joke Batman
- Most notable appearance: The LEGO Batman Movie
This could be an unexpected choice for fourth place, but there’s a reasoning behind it. Yes, this portrayal of typically serious Batman leans towards humor, but that doesn’t diminish Arnett’s impressive performance. Arnett’s interpretation of Batman is commendable because it blends elements from other outstanding character versions while still maintaining its unique identity.
In a flawless fit, the actor’s rugged voice suits the Caped Crusader perfectly, and his knack for comedy elevates every word he speaks into laughter-inducing moments. Yet, Arnett never seems to mock the cherished character itself, only the stereotypes that accompany him. It’s not all about fun; this portrayal of the character, meant primarily for children (and their guardians), surprisingly carries a deep sense of emotion. Beneath the jokes lies a rich depth in Arnett’s Batman. The actor excels at voicing Batman, and it would be exciting to witness him do so beyond the LEGO universe.
3 Peter Weller
Voiced The Most Difficult Version Of Batman
- Most notable appearance: Batman: The Dark Knight Returns
Peter Weller faced a more challenging task than many other Batman voice actors when he was chosen for the role, as “Batman: The Dark Knight Returns” is one of the finest Elseworld Comic Stories about Batman. Given the high expectations from fans, Weller couldn’t simply imitate popular voice actors; instead, he had to bring a unique interpretation to this aged, scarred, and broken version of the character.
In this adaptation, Weller lends his voice to a mature, battle-worn interpretation of The Dark Knight, showcasing an older Batman who has endured many hardships and setbacks over the years. Yet, he maintains a connection to the classic Batman that fans have grown to appreciate. His portrayal of the character is one of the standout aspects in the dual series of “The Dark Knight Returns”. Although he may not have voiced the character elsewhere, this singular performance earns him a third place recognition.
2 Bruce Greenwood
Brought The Relationship Between Batman And Red Hood To Life
- Most notable appearance: Batman: Under The Red Hood
Among numerous factors, “Batman: Under The Red Hood” stands out as one of the most captivating Batman films due to Greenwood’s compelling portrayal of Batman. His performance undeniably contributes to the film’s appeal. The narrative heavily relies on the dynamic between Batman and Red Hood, and Greenwood and Jensen Ackles harmonize exceptionally well in their roles. Batman is known for his stoicism, but Greenwood skillfully portrays the anguish and betrayal that Batman experiences as he watches his former protege transform into a ruthless killer.
Apart from excelling as Batman in “Under The Red Hood“, Greenwood has portrayed the character on multiple occasions. In the series “Young Justice“, he embodies a slightly distinct version of the hero. This rendition of Batman is characterized by a colder, more calculating demeanor and ethical ambiguity, contrasting with that of “Red Hood’s“. Greenwood’s voice perfectly suits the role, delivering an intricate performance that highlights Batman’s stoicism and chilling intensity. At the same time, it brings out his human side when the situation demands it.
1 Kevin Conroy
The G.O.A.T. Of Batman Voice Actors
- Most notable appearance: Batman: The Animated Series
was
Batman for an entire generation. His name is synonymous with the role, the same way that Robert Downey Jr.’s is with Ironman and Mark Hamill’s is with the Joker. Conroy voiced Batman for over thirty years, and his performance in
Batman: The Animated Series
is the benchmark that all other Batman performances are judged on. His portrayal of Batman in the
Arkham
games is one of the things that make them
the best Batman games
around.It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is that made Conroy such a good Batman. He gave Batman just the right amount of gravitas and nailed the delivery of the hero’s no-nonsense attitude and dry humor. He was also gifted at voicing both Batman and his alter ego, Bruce Wayne, something even the most talented voice actors have struggled with. Sadly, Conroy passed away in 2022, and there’s not a Batman fan on the planet who won’t miss his version of the character.
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2024-11-22 10:34