1. Jim Gordon - Batman
Police Commissioner James Worthington Gordon appeared in the very first frame of Detective Comics' brand new series about a crime-fighter who dressed as a bat, making him the first supporting character in a long line to be introduced. For my money, he's also the finest. Throughout most Batman incarnations, the commissioner is seen to be loyal, intelligent and utterly incorruptible. He is usually seen to be wary of Batman's vigilante methods, but aware that there is a sociological necessity for Batman's existence, growing to accept him and even rely upon him in most versions. Gordon is a truly crucial part of the Batman mythology, and it would be hard to imagine the storyline being as strong or richly developed without him. Modern cinematic portrayals have seen class actors like Pat Hingle and Gary Oldman bring Gordon to life on the screen, with fantastic results. A character who is mired in dignity and gravitas deserves nothing less.
Like this article? Who have we missed? Let us know in the comments section below.