Adam West, best known for his beloved performance as TV’s Batman has died aged 88. A spokesperson for West’s family confirmed the news today, revealing the actor had died of Leukemia surrounded by his family and loved ones.
Our beloved AW passed away last night. He was the greatest. We’ll miss him like crazy. We know you’ll miss him too – West Family pic.twitter.com/8bkEq1C2ao
— Adam West (@therealadamwest) June 10, 2017
“Our dad always saw himself as The Bright Knight, and aspired to make a positive impact on his fans’ lives,” said a statement from West’s family. “He was and always will be our hero.”
West’s acting career started in 1959, but it was the role he took in 1966 that shot him to prominence. West’s performance as Batman in the campy 60’s TV show remains one of the most beloved and iconic superhero portrayals of all time, attracting fans spanning multiple generations. It’s a testament to his charisma and talent that today, decades after he first donned the gray suit, West is as popular among pop culture fans as he ever was back in his younger days.
But West was far from a one-hit wonder, going on to put in numerous famous performances after his time as Batman was over. His portrayal of Family Guy’s hapless Mayor West ensured brought his wit and charisma into the 21st century. West is set to return to the Batman franchise with DC Animation’s upcoming animated movie, Batman vs Two Face, in which he will voice Bruce Wayne once more. It feels somewhat fitting that West’s last major role would be as the character that first made him such a household name.
West is survived by wife, Marcelle, his six children, five grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.
RIP Adam West.
