Updated: February 04, 2025

Batman, the story of a TV show that developed a following beyond all expectations. In the mid-1960's, ABC approached producer William Dozier to create a series based on Bob Kane's comic book character. Along with writer Lorenzo Semple, Jr., Dozier created a campy version of Batman to appeal to both children and adults. Dozier cast Adam West as Batman and Burt Ward as Robin. The dynamic duo cruised into America's living rooms on January 12, 1966 and created a sensation. Batman aired two nights a week, with the first night featuring a cliffhanger ending. Villains included Cesar Romero as the Joker and Julie Newmar as Catwoman.

Batman recalls that the first season was a cultural phenomenon. But as the second season ended, the show's ratings began to decline. With the addition of Yvonne Craig as Batgirl and Eartha Kitt as Catwoman, Batman entered its third and final season with a lower budget and decreased screen time. But during its three-year run, Adam West and Burt Ward became two of the world's most recognizable faces. In the late 1980's, West and Ward rose to fame again in a feature film of Batman. Highlights include clips of some of the show's most memorable moments and interviews with Adam West, Burt Ward, Cesar Romero, Frank Gorshin, Julie Newmar, Vincent Price, cartoonist Matt Groening, producer William Dozier and others.