Batman has become one of DC Comics’ most successful superheroes in their illustrious history. From comic books and graphic novels to animated TV shows and full-length blockbuster movies, Batman always seems to attract both old and new fans with each new story. The billionaire superhero without superpowers has appeared in so many different forms of media, and a survey shows fans first heard of Batman in a variety of ways.
According to a 2019 YouGov survey, 24 percent of Batman fans said they were first introduced to the Dark Knight via comic book or graphic novel. However, an even greater 25 percent said they first became fans of Batman through live-action TV shows. In a separate survey, fans said their favorite Batman ever was Adam West in the 1960s, who portrayed the caped crusader in a humorous, campy TV series. 17 percent and 15 percent, respectively, said they first saw Batman in an animated TV show or movie, while 6 percent said they were first introduced through either video games or action figures.
Despite the Batman character eclipsing his 80th anniversary this last year, new forms of media continue to bring the nighttime superhero into a new, modern light. Video games, like the ones created by Rocksteady, have created a whole new generation of Batman fans. New Batman films also continue to bring fresh takes to the franchise, while continued support for comic books, graphic novels and animated series show how the future of Batman in the world’s cultural lexicon is as bright as ever.
