Today marks 60 years since Batman burst onto network television. Now we refer to Adam West’s portrayal and series as “Batman 66” to keep it separate from later Dark Knights. Not that we could confuse them. You might be surprised to note that West played Bruce Wayne/Batman longer than any other actor, even Kevin Conroy. From the original 3 season series to the weird Challenge of the Super Heroes to taking the role back on in animation for Hanna-Barbera then two animated films in the 2010s.
A few years ago I stumbled across this weird moment in Bat-mania. I’ve been waiting for a good reason to run it. At the height of his fame, West guest-hosted a live(ish) variety show called Hollywood Palace, and they played up his role as Batman. Though introduced as Adam West, it’s clearly Batman the producers wanted.
No one will take Adam West as an accomplished song and dance man (advantage: Conroy). But he gives this opening number everything he had. It’s kind of how I want to remember him.
