Adam West, 1928-2017
by Rob Beschizza from on (#2SGNX)
Adam West, famed as Batman and latterly for his work in animation, is dead at 88.
"Our dad always saw himself as The Bright Knight, and aspired to make a positive impact on his fans' lives. He was and always will be our hero," his family said in a statement.
With its "Wham! Pow!" onscreen exclamations, flamboyant villains and cheeky tone, "Batman" became a surprise hit with its premiere on ABC in 1966, a virtual symbol of '60s kitsch. Yet West's portrayal of the superhero and his alter ego, Bruce Wayne, ultimately made it hard for him to get other roles, and while he continued to work throughout his career, options remained limited because of his association with the character.