Batman: Every Live-Action Alfred Pennyworth Ranked Worst To Best
9. Ian Abercrombie - Birds Of Prey
The 2002 TV series, Birds of Prey, follows a group of superheroines who take it upon themselves to watch over Gotham after Batman disappears. The show was a big deal for DC fans since it was the live-action debut of many iconic characters including Black Canary, Lady Shiva, Huntress, Clayface, and Harley Quinn.
But Birds of Prey had a big problem - it sucked. It was so terrible, it got canned after one season. But it wasn't all bad. Ian Abercrombie does a great job at portraying Alfred, who is in the employ of Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle's daughter, Helena Kyle.
One thing which makes Abercrombie's performance stand out is his snarky attitude and dead-pan delivery. Even though Alfred has been depicted like this in the comics since the 1940s, the live-action adaptations usually portray him as more earnest and pensive. As a result, it's refreshing for long-time readers to see an actor play Alfred with a bit more sass.
But despite Abercrombie's best efforts, this Alfred isn't as compelling since he doesn't interact with Bruce Wayne. It's like Sherlock without Watson. Laurel without Hardy. Even though Abercrombie does a commendable job, it doesn't feel right without Batman.