Adam West, best known as the star of the original Batman television series, has died. He was 88 years old.
West reportedly died peacefully in Los Angeles due to complications related to leukemia, according to the BBC. News of his death was first reported by Variety. The West family confirmed his death on the actor’s Twitter account.
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
West’s portrayal of Batman and Bruce Wayne, the crime-fighting superhero’s alter ego, in the 1960’s series helped define the character in American culture. Its campy depictions of violence and use of “WHAM!” and “POW!” illustrations became iconic.
According to Variety, West became so connected to his role as Batman that it became difficult for the actor to find work playing other characters. However, West continued to embrace his Batman legacy, attending comic book conventions and tweeting about it. Most recently, West played the role of Mayor Adam West in the animated series Family Guy, which introduced him to a new generation of fans.
News of West’s death quickly spread on social media, where celebrities and fans alike commemorated the actor.
RIP to “my” Batman…Adam West. pic.twitter.com/gV53FFO7xF
— Bully Ray (@bullyray5150) June 10, 2017
Damn so sad to hear of the passing of Adam West. Such an icon & even more of a gentleman. I’ll miss him at events. #RIPAdamWest pic.twitter.com/at2ENwkUlL
— Clare Kramer (@ClareKramer) June 10, 2017
R.I.P. Adam West. Thanks for disposing of all of Gotham’s evil losers. #BAM pic.twitter.com/r1Zm1176OO
— Cousin Sal (@TheCousinSal) June 10, 2017
RIP Adam West. The hours I spent in adventures with you was a backdrop for my childhood. pic.twitter.com/E3PXdY0RDy
— jodhra (@jonodhra) June 10, 2017
https://twitter.com/JonDonahue/status/873573910062788608
We are so sad to hear about the passing of Adam West. He was our first #Batman and defined the role for so many others. RIP. ❤️ #AdamWest pic.twitter.com/XJJp7mo1Gc
— Nerdist (@nerdist) June 10, 2017
