Batman 1960's

Batman was aired on ABC from January 12, 1966 until March 14, 1968. Batman was created by Bob Kane in 1939 as a comic book hero. During his long career he was featured in the Superman radio series and in two movie serials produced during World War II. the show aired twice a week. On Wednesdays, Batman and his sidekick Robin would confront one of their archenemies and would end the episode in horrible danger, only to save themselves at the beginning of the next episode on Thursdays. These cliffhangers closely followed the tradition created by Kane in the comic books. The television series also followed the comic books' plot.

The success of the series attracted several famous actors and actress to play the villains. Among the most famous enemies were The Riddler (played first by Frank Gorshin and then John Astin), The Penguin (Burgess Meredith), The Joker (Cesar Romero), King Tut (Victor Buono), Egghead (Vincent Price) and Catwoman (played at different moments by Julie Newmar, Lee Ann Meriwether, and Eartha Kitt).
Batman incorporated the expressive art and fashion of the period in its sets and costumes. It also relied excessively on technological gadgetry transforming the show into a parody of contemporary life. It was this self-reflexive parody-camp of the comic character that boosted the ratings of the program to the top ten during its first season.

Cast:

Bruce Wayne (Batman}............................. Adam West
Dick Grayson (Robin).................................. Burt Ward
Alfred Pennyworth..................................... Alan Napier
Aunt Harriet Cooper................................ Madge Blake
Police Commissioner Gordon.................. Neil Hamilton
Chief O'Hara.......................................... Stafford Repp
Barbara Gordon (Batgirl) (1967-1968)........ Yvonne Craig

PRODUCERS

William Dozier, Howie Horwitz

ABC

January 1966-August 1967..... Wednesday & Thursday 7:30-8:00
September 1967-March 1968.......... Thursday 7:30-8:00

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