10 Most Heartbreaking Moments In The DC Animated Universe

7. Alfred's Final Words - Justice League

Justice League Starcrossed Alfred Hawkgirl
Warner Bros.

Alfred is, in many ways, the heart and soul of the Batman mythos. The charming old butler has been brought to life by numerous actors over the years - in particular Michaels Gough and Caine - but when it came to the DCAU, it was Efrem Zimbalist Jr. who provided his voice.

Zimbalist Jr. (who passed away in 2014 at the age of 95), embodied all of Alfred's most endearing qualities. He was soft spoken, wise, and hilariously dry witted, and all three qualities were on display in the actor's final appearance as the character in the conclusion to the three-part Justice League finale, "Starcrossed".

"Starcrossed" was the final episode before the series relaunched as Justice League Unlimited, with the concluding four minutes being dedicated to examining the consequences of Hawkgirl's betrayal. In a meeting at Wayne Manor, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Flash, Martian Manhunter and Green Lantern all debate whether or not she should be allowed to stay, all the while Shayera waits outside with Alfred.

Shayera is anxious about the meeting, but Alfred gives her just about the nicest, most reassuring talk ever. Knowing that this would be the last time Zimbalist Jr. would portray the character though... it makes everything even more emotional.

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Content Producer/Presenter
Content Producer/Presenter

Resident movie guy at WhatCulture who used to be Comics Editor. Thinks John Carpenter is the best. Likes Hellboy a lot. Can usually be found talking about Dad Movies on his Twitter at @EwanRuinsThings.