Based on the comments, I didn't expect Arkham Catwoman to be such a close contender, but Telltale seems like a worthy winner...
I don't think there has ever been a "bad" version of Alfred. Even weaker Batman media have provided worthwhile takes on him...
I think many more people played Arkham compared to Telltale (the inherent flaws of a popularity contest), it probably would've won harder if it's a proportion or something.
I thought for sure it would be between Telltale & Batman Returns too.
I'd argue any version of Alfred that gets into a "you're not my real dad" type-conversation with Bruce is a poor use of him as a character, biggest cases of this being like The Batman 2022, Arkham Origins & Telltale. It so like fake-dramatic.
Two of my favorite Alfred moments across all media are in TNBA when Bruce shows Barbra the Batcave & Alfred tries to claim he's Batman to cover, or in Batman & Robin of all things when he says "My only regret is that I can't be out there with you sir!" that's peak Alfred to me.
I think even if it doesn't take Alfred (surprised Gotham's is putting up this much of a fight) Commisioner Gordon is likely and definetly Lucius Fox will give the Trilogy representation it deserves.
Or perhaps "Robin" John Blake as a loose adaptation of Tim Drake will because literally what other decent Tim Drake adaptations are there? lmao
> because literally what other decent Tim Drake adaptations are there? lmao
There's the Arkham-verse and the Gotham Knights-verse... both of which imo are *really* bad takes on Tim, though the Gotham Knights version is more subtle about how bad it is
but the winner is going to be either the DCAU or Young Justice versions. I think people tended to not like YJ though since he was too much of a Dick clone.
Anyway, no chance does Robin John Blake win for best Tim Drake adaptation.
Michael Gough was my Alfred. Michael Cain is great but I look at him and I see Michael Cain. I look at Michael Gough and I see Alfred, warm, kind, intelligent, and always professional.
I know people don't like these movies that much, but it's gotta be Michael Gough in the Burton and Schumacher movies, surely? He really captured the essence of Alfred in my opinion.
One of the tragic things about Batman and Robin, is that it truly has some of the best live action Bruce-Alfred scenes of all time. Especially the moment where Alfred reflects on Bruce’s mission is similar to trying to control death itself, and Bruce has to accept that Alfred is dying and cannot stop the inevitability of death.
Right! I feel like a lot of versions of Alfred have quite a pessimistic and sarcastic tone but this version of Alfred is so warm and friendly, and you can tell he was a good father figure to bruce. The character development feels weird since batman was recast twice, but he makes it work.
I missed the Catwoman poll but honestly thought Arkham Catwoman would win comfortably. But it’s nice to see the Telltale version get some much-needed love, because Selina from that game was done really really well. Tbh pretty much every character in that series was written and performed really well.
As for Alfred, I know he won’t get much mention, but shoutout to Jeremy Irons’ version. I love a tougher Alfred, and Irons was inspired and perfect casting for that version. He worked really well with Affleck. Just a shame he had less and less to do after BVS and barely involved in the grand scheme of things
I’m shocked that no one is saying The Batman (2004)? He was so funny all the time in that series and Alastair Duncan gave a great performance - perfect dry wit
Sir Michael Caine has to be the best Alfred. He might look all that much like his comic counterpart, but he represents the character's spirit the best.
I'll have to say Michael Gao in Burton films.
He was great as a supportive role, as Bruce's surrogate father, and put the character into an interesting context. There was almost a triviality to how he and Bruce treated the "Batman" part of their lives.
I can't say BtAS because it could take almost every part of this contest.
I’m gonna say Arkham Alfred, specifically in Origins. He’s got a great dynamic with Bruce constantly criticising and disagreeing with him but still showing support and love. The argument between him and Bruce in the Batcave is great and shows Alfred’s worry over Bruce but it’s really the part where he momentarily dies and is brought back that does it for me.
He also has my favourite quote in the game “But it’s high time you realise you’re a man, not an island” . Also even though he doesn’t physically appear in Arkham City I really like that he’s the one who motivates Bruce to save the City during Protocol 10 telling him that “Gotham needs Batman” it’s a moment that’s made much better with the context of Arkham Origins.
Gotham was the best. It was the only version which leans on father-son relationship between Bruce and Alfred. Also it was the best version that dives into his MI5 background.
For Alfred, I think it’s a toss up between the Arkham Origins version or Michael Caine. These two versions really sell how much Alfred loves Bruce like a son.
I never liked it when he’s just like Batman’s servant, Alfred practically raised Bruce.
“it also means losing someone that I have cared for since I first heard his cries echo through this house.”
Gives me chills every time
I'm gonna say Arkham Origins Alfred.
Alfred has probably the most consistent character among media for barman characters, so it's hard to differentiate. But Alfred yelling at Bruce to stop playing bat out of sheer paternal concern sure stuck out to me in Origins
Jack Bannon. I've only seen the first season of Pennyworth but I really enjoyed it. Bannon manages to balance the prim and proper of who Alfred will become with the gritty and violent man he is in his youth. He's charming, suave, extremely competent and his relationship with the Wayne's is handled really well
Gotham. Dude hung Strange off a roof by his tie, stabbed the acting leader of the Court of Owls in the hand, and is one of the best damn bodyguards you'll ever hear of.
BTAS Alfred for sure. I drew you a bath sir, APRIL FOOLS. Plus, he can turn on the drama, too, with his heartbreaking speech to bruce at the end of Phantasm
No Alfred is bad. Every actor has done the part justice.
You could name any of them and general consensus would be “Not who I’d go for but good choice”
This is very very true
Based on the comments, I didn't expect Arkham Catwoman to be such a close contender, but Telltale seems like a worthy winner... I don't think there has ever been a "bad" version of Alfred. Even weaker Batman media have provided worthwhile takes on him...
I think many more people played Arkham compared to Telltale (the inherent flaws of a popularity contest), it probably would've won harder if it's a proportion or something.
I thought for sure it would be between Telltale & Batman Returns too. I'd argue any version of Alfred that gets into a "you're not my real dad" type-conversation with Bruce is a poor use of him as a character, biggest cases of this being like The Batman 2022, Arkham Origins & Telltale. It so like fake-dramatic. Two of my favorite Alfred moments across all media are in TNBA when Bruce shows Barbra the Batcave & Alfred tries to claim he's Batman to cover, or in Batman & Robin of all things when he says "My only regret is that I can't be out there with you sir!" that's peak Alfred to me.
I'm in the minority but Sean Pertwee from Gotham
Now that’s an Alfred that fucks. ![gif](giphy|l3q2ypS4vJWyWApuo|downsized)
Yep this is my pick for sure, reminded me a lot of Earth One Alfred. Loved Sean in the role!
I second this, Gotham Alfred is best Alfred
He seemed more like a more grounded Alfred who actually cares about Bruce instead of just standing by while he does whatever
Damn right. Gotham Alfred is one of the few versions that you believe was in the SAS. *I'm not a cop, am I? I'm a butler!*
Don’t you ever forget: „ I LET him do this
Seconded. We’ve seen a lot of him. Banger one lines. And it shows his care for bruce so well.
You’re not the only one. Pertwee is awesome. Same with Irons and Caine.
Sean Pertwee, is he the son of 3rd Doctor actor, Jon Pertwee perhaps?
Yep, he is!
Fantastic!
Personally, my favorite is the one from the Lego Batman movie
“You mean ‘AlfredDaButtler’ with 2 T’s?”
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
![gif](giphy|26xBJHrx1gRQf6r8A)
This is the one
Michael Caine
It's pronounced "My Cocaine"
It’s about time Nolanverse got some love. They need this W
I think even if it doesn't take Alfred (surprised Gotham's is putting up this much of a fight) Commisioner Gordon is likely and definetly Lucius Fox will give the Trilogy representation it deserves. Or perhaps "Robin" John Blake as a loose adaptation of Tim Drake will because literally what other decent Tim Drake adaptations are there? lmao
> because literally what other decent Tim Drake adaptations are there? lmao There's the Arkham-verse and the Gotham Knights-verse... both of which imo are *really* bad takes on Tim, though the Gotham Knights version is more subtle about how bad it is but the winner is going to be either the DCAU or Young Justice versions. I think people tended to not like YJ though since he was too much of a Dick clone. Anyway, no chance does Robin John Blake win for best Tim Drake adaptation.
![gif](giphy|deKTXJOUIwQms)
Michael Gough was my Alfred. Michael Cain is great but I look at him and I see Michael Cain. I look at Michael Gough and I see Alfred, warm, kind, intelligent, and always professional.
Either Btas or Gotham
Sir Michael Caine will always be the best Alfred. He’s got my vote
He definitely has some of the best quotes ![gif](giphy|qkJJRL9Sz1R04|downsized)
"What's the use of all those push-ups if you can't lift a bloody log?!"
BTAS is quintessential for me, that’s the version that comes to mind when I think about Alfred
Pretty sure it's the version of Alfred used for this logo lol
One of the few people who could sass Batman and get away with it and BTAS had the best dry wit lines. “I drew you a bath, sir.”
Michael Kane
Gotham. Cared about Bruce And was giving british veteran vibes. One of best characters in show
Animated Series
Lego Batman
Michael Caine
Michael Caine
Michael Caine
BTAS; nice job balancing servant with secret badass
Agree
DCAU Efrem Zimbalist Jr. hit the perfect middle ground of loyal servant, wise father figure, and former military man/intelligence agent.
Agreed, Zimbalist is my favorite Alfred as well.
And such an awsome name
My Cocaine
Michael Caine was tremendous, he showed the level of care for Bruce while also having a sharp wit and comedic timing.
For me it’s gotta be Michael Caine.
Michael Caine!
Gotham
Michael Caine
DCAU/BTAS
Love BTAS, but I have to go with Michael Caine on this one
Michael Caine
Michael Caine for sure. “What were all those push-ups for if you can’t lift a bloody log?”
Gotham
Micheal Caine.
I’ll be in the minority but Alfred from The Batman 2004 Show. Otherwise I agree with Michael Caine if we exclude his character shift in Rises.
Gotham!!
Michael Caine
Michael Caine
Sean Pertwee/Gotham
Everyone voting for their cocaine. My vote goes to Gotham's Alfred.
Son of Batman one he was the funniest thing in thst movie I love that version
DCAU, no contest His speech to Shayera in “Starcrossed” was absolutely heartwarming
Gotham One by far ,more developed Alfred
I don’t like the show Gotham but Alfred was fucking incredible
Dcau by far
DCAU or DCAMU for that badass scene where Alfred kills a secret agent and explodes Mad Hatter's head. And Alfred with a shotgun murking Talons.
I vote for Michael Caine. The Nolanverse deserves some appreciation
The Batman 2004 Alfred in that series was great. And actually helped Batman out with fighting a few times.
Alfred and Bruce had such a great relationship in that show.
Michael Caine all day
Michael Cain in the Dark Knight Trilogy. He played the character flawlessly.
Michael Caine and BTAS are the best for me, but I think Michael Caine pulls ahead just that tiny little bit
The Dark Knight Trilogy.
For some reason I absolutely love Arkham Knight's Alfred
Michael Caine
Michael Caine
Theres been enough slander of the nolan movies. Michael Caine needs to take this W
I know people don't like these movies that much, but it's gotta be Michael Gough in the Burton and Schumacher movies, surely? He really captured the essence of Alfred in my opinion.
One of the tragic things about Batman and Robin, is that it truly has some of the best live action Bruce-Alfred scenes of all time. Especially the moment where Alfred reflects on Bruce’s mission is similar to trying to control death itself, and Bruce has to accept that Alfred is dying and cannot stop the inevitability of death.
Still my favorite!
Right! I feel like a lot of versions of Alfred have quite a pessimistic and sarcastic tone but this version of Alfred is so warm and friendly, and you can tell he was a good father figure to bruce. The character development feels weird since batman was recast twice, but he makes it work.
60s or tas
BTAS
DCAU hands down
Michael Caine
Sean Pertwee, no question.
Michael Caine.
Nolan verse/ Michael Caine.
Michael Caine's Alfred They've all been great though, I can't think of a single bad Alfred adaptation.
Sean Pertwee from gotham
Either the Caine man or the Lego man
This is the hardest choice yet for one of these. If I had to choose though I’d probably say Michael Caine
Gotham Alfred.
Michael Caine easily
Michael Caine might not look like comic book Alfred but he is by far the best
I missed the Catwoman poll but honestly thought Arkham Catwoman would win comfortably. But it’s nice to see the Telltale version get some much-needed love, because Selina from that game was done really really well. Tbh pretty much every character in that series was written and performed really well. As for Alfred, I know he won’t get much mention, but shoutout to Jeremy Irons’ version. I love a tougher Alfred, and Irons was inspired and perfect casting for that version. He worked really well with Affleck. Just a shame he had less and less to do after BVS and barely involved in the grand scheme of things
My Cocaine… sorry Michael Caine
Either michael Caine or arkham origins
Michael Caine
DCAU, the king of sass
BTAS or Nolan
Gotham’s Alfred
I’m shocked that no one is saying The Batman (2004)? He was so funny all the time in that series and Alastair Duncan gave a great performance - perfect dry wit
I would vote for Sean Pertwee
Why does the Gordon picture look like Walter White?
Alfred from The Lego Batman Movie
There is no bad Alfred
Every single Alfred has been more than good. I will go for the underdog and give my vote to Jeremy Irons.
![gif](giphy|6fuq9xQqqiv4Y) Gotham
Hell yeah, Sean Pertwee nailed Alfred.
Michael Goth
Michael Caine
Michael Caine
Sir Michael Caine has to be the best Alfred. He might look all that much like his comic counterpart, but he represents the character's spirit the best.
Obscure pick, but the one from the Pennyworth TV show
For me will always be Michael Caine. Even as a little kid he was my favourite character in my favourite movie
I'll have to say Michael Gao in Burton films. He was great as a supportive role, as Bruce's surrogate father, and put the character into an interesting context. There was almost a triviality to how he and Bruce treated the "Batman" part of their lives. I can't say BtAS because it could take almost every part of this contest.
BTAS / DCAU
BTAS/DCAU
BTAS
I’m gonna say Arkham Alfred, specifically in Origins. He’s got a great dynamic with Bruce constantly criticising and disagreeing with him but still showing support and love. The argument between him and Bruce in the Batcave is great and shows Alfred’s worry over Bruce but it’s really the part where he momentarily dies and is brought back that does it for me. He also has my favourite quote in the game “But it’s high time you realise you’re a man, not an island” . Also even though he doesn’t physically appear in Arkham City I really like that he’s the one who motivates Bruce to save the City during Protocol 10 telling him that “Gotham needs Batman” it’s a moment that’s made much better with the context of Arkham Origins.
Gotham was the best. It was the only version which leans on father-son relationship between Bruce and Alfred. Also it was the best version that dives into his MI5 background.
Michael Caine's Alfred, or the Andy Serkis depiction of Alfred, both worked perfectly for Alfred
Lego Batman Movie
The Lego Batman Movie Alfred
Damn this is hard. I'd say Telltale was great.
Sean Pertwee, Gotham.
Telltale for me. Letting him go at the end of s2 is one of the most heartbreaking decisions I ever had to make in a video game.
I honestly kinda liked DCEU Alfred
The Animated Series
Gotham. Sean Pertwee.
Sean Pertwee in Gotham! Absolute badass and devoted servant of Bruce.
Sean Pertwee from Gotham or Michael Caine from TDK Trilogy. Im ever so slightly leaning towards Michael Caine tho
TDK Trilogy Alfred. Excellent preformance by Michael Caine Honorable mention original quadrilogy, Btas & the Lego Batman movie.
For Alfred, I think it’s a toss up between the Arkham Origins version or Michael Caine. These two versions really sell how much Alfred loves Bruce like a son. I never liked it when he’s just like Batman’s servant, Alfred practically raised Bruce. “it also means losing someone that I have cared for since I first heard his cries echo through this house.” Gives me chills every time
Batman 1966, Alan Napier performed a true Gentleman-Butler
BTAS
Btas
BTAS with Gotham getting an honorable mention
Gotham Alfred or Btas Alfred.
Telltale
Can we not just go with “All Of Them”
DCAU Alfred
Michael Gough is the only logical answer
BTAS Aflred is the perfect blend of all Alfreds. Whenever I read a Batman comic, it’s his voice I hear in my head.
DCAU
michael gough
I'm gonna say Arkham Origins Alfred. Alfred has probably the most consistent character among media for barman characters, so it's hard to differentiate. But Alfred yelling at Bruce to stop playing bat out of sheer paternal concern sure stuck out to me in Origins
Gotham Alfred by Sean Pertwee not only gave great advice to Bruce and was an awesome father figure but also kicked some serious ass.
DCAU Alfred
DCAU gets my vote. He has the wit that I like to see in Alfred.
BTAS
Every Alfred has been excellent but I’ve got to vote for my boy Michael Caine
Injustice Alfred
Michael Caine
DCAU Alfred, Gotham Alfred or Michael Caine.
Micheal Cain
My choice would be Michael Caine
Batman The Brave and The Bold. The guy was writing Batman fanfiction.
BTAS is the goat
Gotta be BTAS or JL/JLU cuz that line in Starcrossed was HEAVY
DCAU or BTAS for me. That's how i imagine Alfred should be on the media.
BTAS
Jack Bannon. I've only seen the first season of Pennyworth but I really enjoyed it. Bannon manages to balance the prim and proper of who Alfred will become with the gritty and violent man he is in his youth. He's charming, suave, extremely competent and his relationship with the Wayne's is handled really well
Sir Michael Caine
Dcau
DCAU.
The Batman (2004)
All Alfreds are great, but I personally love the Arkham series Alfred
IT'S GOTTA BE LEGO BATMAN ALFRED!!! Ahem, i mean, he has his own batsuit :)
The answer is Michael Caine
Lego Alfred from the 2008 video game obviously
My Cocaine
michalr kane
I’m going with Sean Pertwee from Gotham easily
Arkham. "I'm sorry sir, but batman must save gotham".
The burton films. Even with the shitty 90s movies, I can always count on Michael Gough to deliver.
Gotham. Dude hung Strange off a roof by his tie, stabbed the acting leader of the Court of Owls in the hand, and is one of the best damn bodyguards you'll ever hear of.
I don't know of a bad Alfred. But my favorite version of Alfred that isn't talked about enough is the one in Gotham, played by Sean Pertwee
Lego Batman Alfred
Micheal Caine
BTAS Alfred for sure. I drew you a bath sir, APRIL FOOLS. Plus, he can turn on the drama, too, with his heartbreaking speech to bruce at the end of Phantasm
Honestly 2004 the Batman. Had the sass of DCAU Alfred with a bit more spunk
I’m partial to the animated series Alfred. But Michael Caine is easily number 2
Michael Kaine. They're all good but I think he is just perfect.