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For decades, Adam West *was* Batman. As the star of the iconic 1960s Batman television series, he charmed audiences with his earnest portrayal of the Caped Crusader. Now, at the remarkable age of 93 (not 80 as initially reported!), West has revealed his favorite adversaries from his time fighting crime in Gotham. Prepare for a surprising list – it’s not all about the Joker!

In a recent interview, West reminisced about his experiences battling the rogues' gallery of Batman. While acknowledging the Joker’s undeniable impact on the Batman mythos, he highlighted other villains who left a lasting impression. “The Joker was certainly memorable,” West chuckled, “but there were others who really challenged Batman and me.”

The Top 3 Villains According to the Original Batman

1. The Riddler (Frank Gorshin): West consistently praised Frank Gorshin’s portrayal of the Riddler. “Frank was brilliant! He really understood the character, bringing a mischievous intelligence and theatrical flair that was just perfect,” West explained. “His riddles were genuinely clever, and he always managed to keep Batman on his toes. Frank was a joy to work with, and his Riddler remains one of my absolute favorites.” West's fondness for Gorshin’s performance clearly shines through, emphasizing the actor's commitment to the role.
2. Penguin (Burgess Meredith): The waddling villain with an umbrella and a penchant for chaos also earned a spot on West’s list. “Burgess Meredith was a master,” West stated. “He brought a real menace to the Penguin, despite the often-campy nature of the show. The way he delivered his lines, the physicality… it was all just superb. He made the Penguin a truly formidable foe.” Meredith’s ability to balance the character’s inherent absurdity with genuine threat is something West clearly appreciated.
3. Mr. Freeze (George Sanders): Surprisingly, Mr. Freeze, introduced later in the series, secured the third spot. “George Sanders was just fantastic,” West said. “He brought a gravitas and tragic backstory to Mr. Freeze that really elevated the character. It wasn’t just about freezing things; it was about a man driven by loss. That added a whole new dimension to the Batman universe.” West’s appreciation for Sanders’ performance highlights the show’s willingness to explore more complex themes, even within its campy framework.

West’s choices offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of the man who defined Batman for a generation. While the Joker remains the most recognizable villain, West’s perspective reminds us of the depth and variety within the Batman universe. It’s a testament to the talented actors who brought these characters to life and the enduring appeal of the Batman television series.

Adam West’s legacy as Batman continues to inspire, and his insights into his favorite villains provide a delightful look back at a truly iconic era in superhero television. He remains a beloved figure for fans of all ages, proving that even after all these years, the Caped Crusader and his faithful sidekick, Robin, still hold a special place in our hearts.