HBO has built a reputation for producing some of the greatest comedy series of all time, including Hacks, Barry, Veep, and, of course, Curb Your Enthusiasm. That winning streak isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Larry David, the creator of Curb Your Enthusiasm, has returned with a brand-new series that’s already become an instant hit for the streamer.

The new series is a comedy sketch show, with half-hour episodes featuring four skits each, all centered around specific historical events. It’s essentially Curb Your Enthusiasm with historical dressing. The first episode covers the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, Alexander Graham Bell‘s first phone call gone wrong with customer service, a cowardly soldier stuck in the World War I trenches, and an unlucky passenger who sits next to Rosa Parks and somehow manages to start a dispute.

Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness is a seven-part limited series now streaming on HBO Max. And according to FlixPatrol, it has become an international hit within a single day of its premiere on Friday, June 26. The series has already landed in the HBO Max Top 10 TV Shows chart in 35+ countries, including the United States, where it is currently the #2 most popular series.

Despite Streaming Success, ‘Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness’ Has Opened To Mixed Reviews

The chart performance is not entirely surprising. Any new streaming show tends to generate an immediate surge in popularity, and David’s return to comedy was always going to attract attention fast. What is more telling, though, is how the reviews have landed. The series currently holds a rotten 57% critics score and an even lower 42% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, both of which sit well below what viewers tend to expect from a David-led project.

The Rosa Parks sketch has been the one consistent bright spot, unanimously praised as vintage David and exactly the kind of payoff the premise promised. Everything before it, though, has drawn muted responses. The jokes and complaints feel recycled from the Curb playbook, just with historical costumes swapped in and nothing new to offer. The good news is that upcoming episodes have more varied and potentially richer territory to mine, including the Watergate scandal, the Boston Tea Party, the Moon landing, and the Wright Brothers‘ first flight. Here’s hoping that the show manages to win over audiences with the remaining six episodes.

Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness is available to stream on HBO Max. New episodes release weekly on Fridays at 9:00 p.m. ET.

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Release Date

June 26, 2026

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HBO

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Jeff Schaffer

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Love Island USA‘s Zach Georgiou lied to Kayda Bosse about how his connection with Alannah Keyser ended.

During the Monday, June 29, episode of the Peacock show, Zach tried to reassure Kayda that she was always his first choice. He mentioned that his time in Casa Amor didn’t build a strong bond with Alannah because he came back solo.

“If I wanted to, I would have brought her back,” he claimed.

Viewers, however, know that Zach didn’t have the option to bring Alannah back because she was removed from the show after facing backlash for a resurfaced video that allegedly showed her using a racial slur.

The video and other posts were not shared publicly until after Alannah’s appearance on the show and thus were not accessible during the vetting process.

“Hi everyone, I’m coming on here to address some things that have been circulated online. I do want to begin by addressing the video of me singing along to a Roddy Ricch song that contains a racial slur. I’m sorry to whoever has seen that video and has been offended by it. That was never my intention,” Alannah said in a Saturday, June 27, TikTok. “The video is from six years ago and that word is just not in my vocabulary anymore.”

She continued, “I’d also like to address the screenshots that have been going around online that have been falsified. What has been shared does not reflect the truth and it has never been in my character to discriminate against anybody’s skin color. I do want to say directly that I do not support racism or discrimination of any kind and I never have.”

Earlier this season, another contestant, Vasana Montgomery, was cut from the show after resurfaced social media posts showed her using a slur. Similar issues arose during season 7 last year, with Yulissa Escobar leaving days into the experience after clips of her using racial slurs on a podcast circulated online.

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Cierra Ortega also faced backlash for using a slur in her own resurfaced social media post. She was pulled from the villa and later issued an apology for her past actions.

New episodes of Love Island USA are released six days a week — except for Wednesdays — on Peacock.

Join Us Weekly and Bracketology.tv in our first-ever Love Island USA fantasy league! This is your chance to predict who you think will win Season 8 and rank the Islanders weekly based on how confident you are that they will survive the next elimination. You will be playing against our editors, get access to exclusive content and have the chance to win fun prizes. Sign up for free today!

Louisa Levy’s Off Campus has topped Prime Video’s TV charts again this week, retaining its position as the number one show on the streaming service. An adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s hit book series of the same name, the show follows the story of a music student and a star hockey player who find unexpected romance. The romance drama has been warmly received by critics and fans alike ever since its premiere in May, and it’s been regularly topping the lists ever since. But in case that’s not quite what you’re in the mood for, there are still a lot more options to explore on the platform. Without further ado, here’s a look at three great shows that we think you should binge on Prime Video this week.

For more recommendations, check out our list of the best shows and movies on Prime Video.

1

‘The Girlfriend’ (2025)

A psychological thriller miniseries, The Girlfriend is an adaptation of Michelle Frances‘ 2017 novel, directed by Andrea Harkin and Robin Wright, who also stars in the show as wealthy art gallery owner Laura. After meeting her son Daniel’s (Laurie Davidson) new girlfriend, Cherry (Olivia Cooke), Laura grows suspicious of this newcomer in her life and sets out to discover her secret. Besides the leading trio, the series also stars Waleed Zuaiter, Tanya Moodie, Shalom Brune-Franklin, and more in supporting roles.

The Girlfriend debuted on Prime Video in September 2025 to a positive critical reception and became a hit with audiences as well. A twisty story of love, greed, and complex family dynamics, the series’ plot may be as pulpy as it gets, but it is elevated by the stellar performances. Wright and Cooke’s antagonistic chemistry carries the show through its rougher patches, delivering a soapy, melodramatic thriller that derives maximum tension from the psychological complexities of its characters.

2

‘Psych’ (2006–2014)

Created by Steve Franks, Psych is a detective comedy-drama series starring James Roday as Shawn Spencer, who claims to be a psychic but actually uses his impressive memory and observational skills to solve crimes. The series follows Shawn on various cases, consulting for the Santa Barbara Police Department with his best friend, Burton “Gus” Guster, and his father, Henry, a former detective. Dulé Hill co-stars as Gus and Corbin Bernsen as Henry, with Timothy Omundson, Maggie Lawson, Kirsten Nelson, and Anne Dudek in key roles.

Psych premiered on USA Network in 2006 with strong ratings and had a successful eight-season run on the network. Paired with the even more popular series Monk for its first three years, the two shows have become a favorite double-feature for fans, with both delivering a comparable mix of humor and mystery. And though the series itself ended in 2014, Psych has since spawned a film series that includes 2017’s Psych: The Movie, 2020’s Psych 2: Lassie Come Home, and 2021’s Psych 3: This Is Gus.

3

‘Harlan Coben’s Shelter’ (2023)

Developed by Harlan Coben and his daughter, Charlotte Coben, Harlan Coben’s Shelter is a mystery drama series adapted from Coben’s eponymous 2011 novel. The show explores the dark secrets hiding behind the quiet facade of a suburban community in Kasselton, New Jersey, which come to light after the mysterious disappearance of a young girl. The series stars Jaden Michael, Constance Zimmer, Abby Corrigan, and Adrian Greensmith in key roles.

One of the more acclaimed Harlan Coben adaptations of recent years, Shelter premiered to a favorable critical reception in 2023 and became a hit with audiences as well thanks to its engaging, twisty plot. Successfully combining high school drama with a dark, small-town thriller narrative, the series is as addictive as one of Coben’s novels and a highly binge-worthy pick for fans of the genre. The show features numerous twists, a gripping plot, and some great performances, making it a must-watch for fans of Coben’s signature style.

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Harlan Coben’s Shelter

Release Date

2023 – 2023-00-00

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Showrunner

Harlan Coben, Charlotte Coben

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Patricia Cardoso, Edward Ornelas, Christina Choe, Deborah Kampmeier

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Harlan Coben, Charlotte Coben

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Love Island USA‘s Jen Terry took issue with Gal Tshnieder not complimenting her enough.

“I think you’re so attractive and I love talking to you. We get along but I don’t think we have sexual compatibility,” Jen told Gal during the Monday, June 29, episode of the show.

Jen admitted she was questioning their connection, adding, “I just feel like you don’t like me and you don’t compliment me. I don’t remember one compliment you’ve said to me — and I feel like I would have at least had one in my head. The fact that I have none is alarming to me.”

She continued: “You have girls in here that you would like to get to know. So it kind of does make me feel like a second option.”

Gal, however, clarified that his only issue was public displays of affection, which is why he wasn’t kissing her in front of everyone in the villa. The duo agreed to keep working on their relationship — before Kenzie Annis made a move on him as well.

Jen has previously been surprisingly candid while in the villa. She previously admitted she has been struggling when guys in the villa don’t show interest in her.

“I know that I am gorgeous and stunning but here — besides when I was with Gabe — I felt like, ‘Am I hideous?’” she said in the Thursday, June 25, episode. “Is there something wrong with me? Does my personality suck?”

She continued: “Normally I am used to guys drooling over me. Here it has been so hard.”

Love Island USA follows a group of singles who must pair off in order to stay in the show’s luxury villa. The contestants — referred to as Islanders — live in isolation in a villa under constant video surveillance. They must be coupled up to remain on the show and earn a shot at the $100,000 prize.

The show is coming off a record-breaking moment with season 7 bringing in 18.4 billion streaming minutes, making it the most-watched original season of television on the platform.

“[This season] there’s a lot more emphasis put on the journey as opposed to the result,” narrator Iain Stirling told Us Weekly exclusively in July 2025. ”I think it’s about the journey of finding someone and how you grow as a person by doing that. Whereas five or six years ago, you had, like, proper millennials in there. There was that more traditional approach to dating.”

While some fans questioned the love journeys, Stirling was on board with the Islanders taking a different approach.

“The end goal [was] to be with someone and you have this contract with someone you’re in a relationship with to honor that person and to honor that relationship,” he noted. “I think now there’s a lot more people who make contracts with themselves to have the journey that they want and the experience they’re after.”

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He added, “These people are predominantly speaking in their early 20s. If you can’t be selfish dating then — then when can you? Especially people from my generation, they weren’t selfish in their 20s and maybe did not want to upset people. Then they get to sort of 30 to 40 and get divorced and go insane. Maybe it’s the healthier way to do it.”

New episodes of Love Island USA are released six days a week — except for Wednesdays — on Peacock.

Join Us Weekly and Bracketology.tv in our first-ever Love Island USA fantasy league! This is your chance to predict who you think will win Season 8 and rank the Islanders weekly based on how confident you are that they will survive the next elimination. You will be playing against our editors, get access to exclusive content and have the chance to win fun prizes. Sign up for free today!

From split pants and broken straps to showing more skin than initially anticipated, stars have had their fair share of cringe-worthy wardrobe malfunctions. And most of the time, it’s all going down in the public eye.

Whether something is snapping on live television or the wind caused a mishap en route to an event, everyone from Lindsay Lohan to Nicki Minaj has found themselves faced with a clothing crisis — but most are able to handle the debacle with ease.

Take Miley Cyrus for example. The singer kicked off 2022 with her NBC New Year’s special. And while her show was going off without a hitch, things took a turn just before midnight.

While in the middle of her “Party in the USA” performance, the strap on her top snapped right off. Rather than stop singing and scuttle off stage, she tossed her shirt aside, covered up her breasts with her arm and strut backstage to change into a blazer.

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She even joked about the incident after the fact, taking to Instagram to share a picture of her outfit in its glory. “Get a good look at the top that didn’t stay on very long …” she jokingly captioned her post.

Over the years, Justin Timberlake, Nikki Glaser, Olivia Rodrigo and Ariana Grande have all fallen victim to the dreaded wardrobe malfunction.

Scroll down to see the most embarrassing celebrity wardrobe malfunctions:

While the 80s are often credited as the decade that helped massively popularize video games for players around the world, the 90s were a monumental step forward for the medium with countless leaps forward in the first major step for treating them as works of art. With ever-growing technologies and approaches to game design, many of these titans of the decade are some of the most influential and important video game releases of all time.

Even more impressive is just how many of these games still hold up tremendously under a modern lens, able to be continously played time and time again without ever being tired of their seamless gameplay and impactful strengths. From top-notch multiplayer experiences that can be shared with friends to engaging single-player worlds filled with depth and intrigue, these games have maintained their strengths decades after their release and will forever be timeless classics of the medium.

10

‘Tekken 3’ (1997)

One of the biggest leaps that fighting games made during the 90s was the leap into the third dimension, and while games like the original Tekken and Virtual Fighter were vastly important for the genre, Tekken 3 still stands as one of the absolute greatest 3D fighting games of all time. The game sees the Tekken franchise truly hitting its stride in terms of great graphics, seamless and fluid gameplay, and a vast cast of memorable characters to create one of the definitive fighting game experiences of the decade.

It speaks volumes to the fact that even decades after the game’s release and a multitude of other Tekken sequels that have pushed the genre forward, there is still something compelling and energetic about Tekken 3 that makes it a great game to simply pick up and play with friends. Many inherent staples of the series would find their start in this game, largely paving the way for the success of the rest of the franchise and 3D fighting games as a whole.

9

‘Super Mario World’ (1990)

There is an inherent timelessness and passion placed into each of the main series Super Mario titles that make them some of the most celebrated and masterful platformers of all time. Super Mario World still stands as one of the defining 2D platformers and overall greatest games that Mario has ever been a part of, with a massive increase in scope and scale provided from the jump to the SNES from the NES. With more personality in the levels and a great mixture of difficulty and fun, Super Mario World still holds up tremendously as a top-notch platformer.

Especially with the game frequently being rereleased on the likes of the virtual console and Nintendo Switch Online, there are a multitude of ways for modern-day gamers to experience this timeless 90s platformer in all of its greatness. Nearly every modern 2D Mario game finds a lot of inspiration from this legendary title, as it pushed the needle forward for 2D platformers more than any other game of the decade.

8

‘Doom’ (1993)

First-person shooters continue to be one of the most popular styles of video game released in the modern age, with the Call of Duty and Halo franchises still selling millions of copies to dedicated fans time and time again. However, among all the classic FPS games that helped push the genre forward, Doom is still an absolute blast that is just as fun today as it was when it first released. Even with it not having a lot of the same quality of life elements of later FPS games, there is an untold catharsis of laying waste to demons that is unmatched by other shooters.

It’s this mixture of top-notch action with effective level design that has made the game a timeless classic and one of the most important games in the fps genre. There’s a reason that fans are so dedicated to the game that they find ways to get it to run on just about every piece of technology imaginable. Even with a myriad of great sequels to choose from, Doom is still a blast to play time and time again.

7

‘Street Fighter III: Third Strike’ (1999)

It might seem sacrilegious to not include Street Fighter II on this list, considering just how often the game is attributed to helping massively popularize fighting games as an entire genre. However, even within the 90s, Street Fighter and fighting games massively evolved to better hone in on their strengths, with the culmination of this brilliance coming in the form of Street Fighter III: Third Strike. This third iteration of the third Street Fighter game is so beloved and appreciated by players that several still consider it the greatest fighting game of all time.

It has a diverse and incredibly fun cast of characters to play as, while the core gameplay tailors itself to player expression and fluidity above all else. There is a reason that even after various other main-series sequels, Third Strike continues to be played at a competitive level, with it even being a main stage game at EVO as recent as 2024. While Street Fighter II may have the influence and legacy on its side, Third Strike is infinitely more fun and replayable to dedicated fans of the franchise.

6

‘Mario Kart 64’ (1996)

Mario Kart has been a staple of simple multiplayer fun for decades now, with nearly every entry in the franchise having the simple pick-up-and-play appeal that makes them always a blast to play with a group of friends. Even the very first game in the series to have 4-player multiplayer, Mario Kart 64, is just as fun and high-energy to play nowadays as it was when it first released. It stays true to the timeless strengths of the franchise, popularizing many of these strengths and cementing Mario Kart as an addicting multiplayer party experience.

This legendary racing game continues to be a blast thanks to its wide array of memorable and fun courses, as well as tight-knit controls that make it very easy to understand and get a handle on. Even non-gamers can very easily catch onto the fun and energy that Mario Kart provides, continuing to make this one of the strongest multiplayer experiences that the 90s has to offer.

5

‘Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings’ (1999)

Real-Time Strategy games really hit their stride in the 90s with a multitude of exceptional games that helped push the genre forward to new heights, with games like Starcraft and Command & Conquer still being massively celebrated by fans to this day. However, in terms of lasting legacy and continued playability in the modern era, nothing comes close to the masterful scope and gameplay of Age of Empires II: The Age of Kings. The game sees players gathering resources and building up their towns and armies to defeat opposing civilizations.

While the wide array of great single-player content helped give the game hours of content and impact, its the competitive multiplayer and online matchmaking that truly made Age of Empires and icon of the RTS genre. The craft and exceptionally balanced impact of building up a civilization against a seasoned opponent is still one of the best, most satisfying and high-level competitive multiplayer experiences of the RTS genre. Still being played by a dedicated player base to this day, Age of Empires II is one of the greatest RTS games of all time.

4

‘Super Metroid’ (1994)

Image via Nintendo

The initial games in the Metroid franchise were certainly well-made for their time, but Super Metroid‘s exceptional sense of scale and gameplay improvements not only cemented the franchise as one of Nintendo’s best, but it helped pave the way for an entire genre in its namesake. The pure catharsis of exploring a vast map, picking up upgrades and exploring every nook and cranny for secrets makes Super Metroid a truly special experience for the era.

This gameplay loop proves to be so effective that it acts as one of the core namesakes for the Metroidvania genre, an entire genre of exploration adventure games created in the wake of both Super Metroid and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Even after the Metroidvania genre has massively grown and evolved in the decades since its release, Super Metroid is still a blast to play, as the core tenets of its strengths stay true and timeless in their execution.

3

‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’ (1998)

Image via Nintendo

The largest and most important trend and evolution for gaming in the 90s was easily the jump to 3D technology and gameplay at home consoles, with many of the most iconic and revolutionary games of the era making use of the new potential of 3D. As such, it isn’t a surprise that The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, the first 3D Zelda game, elevated the legendary adventure series to untold new heights, still being considered one of the greatest games of all time.

From the vast open world of Hyrule to an array of memorable dungeons to explore, Ocarina of Time distills the pure magic of a fantasy adventure into its purest form, being one of the absolute best fantasy games of all time in its execution. With so many side-quests, collectibles, and secrets to uncover, it’s a game that will always be a blast to play from beginning to end, as a core fundamental experience for many games.

2

‘Final Fantasy VII’ (1997)

Final Fantasy was already the absolute face of JRPGs during previous generations, although Final Fantasy VII proved to be such a monumental step forward not just for the franchise, but for video game storytelling as a whole. It’s an exceptional story of freedom fighting against a ruthless corporate entity, siphoning the resources of a magical world, which is still incredibly compelling all these years later, made all the better by the cast of great characters and an engaging, nearly 100-hour gameplay experience.

The game has grown not just into being the most recognizable and iconic Final Fantasy game, but the most recognizable JRPG of all time, having a massive influence across the entire genre and furthering its icon status with a multitude of remakes and spinoffs. There’s simply so much content within the game that it’s impossible to experience everything on a single playthrough, making the game perfect for being replayed and reexperienced to see what all the game has to offer.

1

‘Super Mario 64’ (1996)

While Mario had already proven himself to be an absolute titan of 2D platformers in the years before, Super Mario 64 was a major test for not just the franchise, but the longevity and possibilities of 3D platformers as a subgenre. Needless to say, Super Mario 64 proved to be so whimsical and exceptionally crafted that it helped fully establish Super Mario as the king of 3D platformers just as much as 2D platformers. With so many wild worlds to explore and fun around every corner, Super Mario 64 is one of the definitive gaming masterpieces of the 90s.

Its greatest strength, however, comes from just how easy it is to pick up and have a blast with it, whether a player is fully experienced with the game’s world and secrets or playing a 3D platformer for the first time. Its strengths are core to the wonder of video games as a whole, giving greater attention to the joys and feelings felt by the player as they control Mario through its various platforming challenges and puzzles.

Taylor Frankie Paul’s ex, Dakota Mortensen, called the cops with questions about the exes’ protective order amid their ongoing custody battle.

The Bluffdale Police Department confirmed to Us Weekly on Monday, June 29, that Mortensen, 33, called the authorities at around 10 p.m. on Friday, June 26. According to the police, Mortensen called with questions about the protective order that he and Paul, 32, have regarding 2-year-old son Ever’s visitation, specifically about who can help with the drop-off and pick-up exchange. Mortensen wanted to know if the protective order had been violated.

Officers made contact with Paul via a phone call and gathered statements from all parties involved. The case was sent to the District Attorney’s office, who will decide if a violation occurred.

The Bluffdale Police Department’s investigation will be complete unless the district attorney says a violation occurred.

Related: Taylor Frankie Paul’s Attorney Addresses Custody Hearing, Protective Order

Taylor Frankie Paul’s attorney is speaking out after a judge issued both the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star and her ex Dakota Mortensen protective orders during a custody hearing on Thursday, April 30. “Today’s hearing was a significant step forward as the court entered protective orders requiring that Taylor’s ex-partner stays far away from […]

Us has reached out to Paul, Mortensen and the District Attorney’s office for comment.

Following the incident, Paul took to social media to slam Mortensen for reaching out to the authorities.

“Cops called on me again THIS WEEK … What are the odds?” the Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star wrote in a since-deleted Instagram Story, according to a screenshot shared via TMZ. “And it’s not people … it’s ONE person, the same person. It’s obsessive.”

Paul and Mortensen have been involved in an ongoing custody battle over Ever following multiple domestic violence incidents and allegations. Earlier this year, Mortensen alleged Paul had been physically violent with him during a February incident. According to court documents obtained by TMZ at the time, Mortensen claimed that he and Paul had an altercation at her house where she allegedly choked him and shoved him into a window. Mortensen alleged that Paul was “emotionally volatile” and he was fearful for their toddler’s safety. Paul has vehemently denied the allegations of child abuse.

Mortensen was later granted temporary custody of Ever. Paul, for her part, filed for a protective order against Mortensen, claiming that he assaulted her in his truck. The order was granted and a judge ruled that the exes have to stay at least 100 feet away from each other.

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Related: Taylor Frankie Paul Hugs Dakota Mortensen’s Mom After Custody Hearing

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Taylor Frankie Paul hugged Dakota Mortensen’s mom after the former couple’s custody and protective order hearing on Thursday, April 30. Taylor, 31, was pictured embracing Cheyenne Cranford Mortensen inside Salt Lake City’s Third District Courthouse following Thursday’s hearing, during which a judge issued Taylor and Dakota, 33, protective orders against each other. The exes share […]

Earlier this month, a judge ruled that Paul no longer needed supervised visitation of Ever and that she can have her son on alternative weekends and one midweek day as long as the child does not spend the night. (Taylor also shares two kids with her ex-husband, Tate Paul.)

Taylor and Mortensen are scheduled to appear in court on July 8 for another custody hearing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.

Batman has been one of the most enduring characters in popular culture. So, it is no surprise that the character is the superhero who has been portrayed in live action the most. There are even more actors playing Bruce Wayne across film and TV. Across more than eight decades, each actor to wear the cape and cowl has brought something different to the Caped Crusader. The hero has evolved with the times, from the World War II era to today. Their depictions also reflect the filmmakers’ vision and the audiences’ expectations of the character.

Here, we take a look at all the live-action portrayals of Batman, from its TV serial beginnings to its most recent iteration starring Robert Pattinson. With James Gunn‘s DCU actively developing their own version of Batman with the upcoming The Brave and the Bold, this list will definitely change in the near future. But for now, light up the Batsignal and play the Batman soundtrack of your choice, because here is our ranking of all the live-action Batmen!

9

Robert Lowery – ‘Batman and Robin’ (1949)

Robert Lowery is the second actor ever to take over the role of Batman in Batman and Robin, a serial sequel to the 1943 version. Unlike its predecessor, Lowery’s version shifted away from propaganda and focused on a more traditional superhero adventure as Batman and Robin searched for the mysterious criminal mastermind known as the Wizard.

Lowery played Bruce Wayne with confidence and a slightly more relaxed demeanor than his predecessor, but in the process becomes less memorable. The production suffered from an even tighter budget, resulting in an unconvincing Batsuit, repetitive action sequences, and uninspired storytelling that gave Batman very little opportunity to stand out. Lowery himself delivers a competent performance, but he never develops a distinct personality for either Bruce Wayne or Batman. That made the character feel generic compared to virtually every live-action interpretation that followed.

8

Lewis Wilson – ‘Batman’ (1943)

Lewis Wilson is the very first actor to portray Batman in live action in the 1943 Batman serial produced by Columbia Pictures. The serial Batman did not adapt any of the comic storyline or feature Batman’s rogues. Instead, Batman and Robin (Douglas Croft) face off against the Japanese agent Dr. Tito Daka (J. Carrol Naish) during World War II.

While the serial was practically a propaganda tool, Wilson’s performance was earnest and sincere, showing Batman as a courageous crime-fighter. It was still however, one-dimensional due to the straightforward nature of the story. This iteration actually helped establish some of the stylistic foundations of Batman on screen and in comics, such as the entrance to the Batcave through the grandfather clock and also Alfred’s look for the comics. The series was quite successful and was even re-released in cinemas three times.

7

George Clooney – ‘Batman & Robin’ (1997)

Image via WB

Infamously dubbed as the worst portrayal of the Caped Crusader on screen, George Clooney portrayed Bruce Wayne in Joel Schumacher‘s Batman & Robin. On paper, Clooney seemed like a natural fit thanks to his charisma and charm. He could be the perfect Bruce Wayne. In the film, he’s joined by an all-star cast that includes Arnold Schwarzenegger and Uma Thurman.

Clooney may have took his charm for granted and he barely tried to add more to the role. His performance was flat in a film that demanded big performances. Schwarzenegger and Thurman embraced the camp and delivered memorable performances as Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy. While his Bruce Wayne is perfectly pleasant, the Batman side of him was out of place and it felt like Batman himself was just a supporting character in his own movie. Clooney himself has admitted he never quite found the character beneath the spectacle and he has been on an apology tour ever since. However, he did reprise his Bruce Wayne in a cameo in The Flash.

6

Val Kilmer – ‘Batman Forever’ (1995)

Image via Warner Bros.

After Batman Returns was deemed too dark, Val Kilmer wore the cape and cowl in the much brighter and commercially accessible Batman Forever. Kilmer brought a quieter, more introspective quality to Bruce Wayne. He portrayed him as a person haunted by the trauma of his parents’ murder. In the film, he goes up against the double threat of Two-Face (Tommy Lee Jones) and the Riddler (Jim Carrey).

In Schumacher’s direction, Kilmer’s Batman often feels caught between two creative visions. His dramatic instincts fit the darker aspects of Bruce Wayne’s character, while the rest of the film is pure camp. Kilmer gives Bruce emotional vulnerability and intelligence, but his Batman lacks the commanding screen presence of Michael Keaton or the physical intensity of later portrayals. His performance remains underrated because it contains genuine depth. One of Kilmer’s reasons for leaving the franchise was that his performance felt secondary to the merchandising and spectacle of the universe.

5

Robert Pattinson – ‘The Batman’ (2022)

Image via Jonathan Olley /© Warner Bros. / Courtesy Everett Collection

Robert Pattinson is the most current live-action Batman, having debuted in 2022’s The Batman. Set during Batman’s second year as Gotham’s vigilante, this version is a man almost entirely consumed by his mission. Barely maintaining his public persona as Bruce Wayne, Pattinson’s Batman chooses instead to spend nearly all of his time investigating crimes until he goes head-to-head with his toughest adversary yet, The Riddler (Paul Dano).

Pattinson emphasizes Batman’s detective abilities more than almost any previous live-action actor, bringing the character closer to his famous moniker as the World’s Greatest Detective. His version of the Bat may be the most untrained but it is fascinating to see how he operates and develops throughout the three-hour film. While some viewers may have wanted a more charismatic Bruce Wayne, the film intentionally portrays someone who hasn’t yet learned to separate the alter-ego from himself. It is a pitch-perfect iteration for today’s world, and audiences will see him again in next year’s sequel.

4

Michael Keaton – ‘Batman’ (1989) & ‘Batman Returns’ (1992)

It’s hard to imagine now that Michael Keaton‘s casting was considered controversial when it was first announced. With Tim Burton at the helm, Keaton’s interpretation of the character was darker and more mysterious than Adam West’s in Batman. His Bruce Wayne appeared socially awkward and emotionally detached, but he truly comes alive as the Batman. His take becomes even darker and more mature in Batman Returns when he faces Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) and The Penguin (Danny DeVito).

Keaton’s greatest strength lies in how effortlessly he conveys Batman’s intimidating presence. Aided by the costume’s limited mobility, his movements become otherworldly and menacing. Burton’s gothic aesthetic complemented Keaton’s depiction perfectly. Although later portrayals would offer greater realism or more physical action, Keaton permanently changed how Hollywood viewed the character. His performance marked the point where Batman stopped being seen as merely a colorful comic-book hero and became a serious cinematic figure. Keaton reprised his role as an older version of his character in the multiversal adventure The Flash.

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Ben Affleck – DCEU (2016 – 2023)

Image via Warner Bros.

Another controversial casting, Ben Affleck proved his detractors wrong when he portrayed Batman across Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Zack Snyder’s Justice League, and in cameo appearances in Suicide Squad and The Flash. Unlike previous live-action versions, Affleck’s Bruce Wayne is battle-hardened and cynical after decades of crime-fighting. This Batman has endured losses and has grown increasingly ruthless, but finds hope when he encounters Superman (Henry Cavill).

With his imposing frame, Affleck arguably resembles the comic-book Batman more closely than any actor before him. His warehouse rescue sequence in Batman v Superman remains one of the most faithful live-action depictions of Batman’s combat skills. Although the controversial decision to have Batman kill divided fans, Affleck committed fully to portraying a hero who had lost his moral compass before gradually rediscovering it. Despite appearing in uneven films, Affleck delivered one of the most layered and physically convincing Batman performances ever put on screen.

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Adam West – ‘Batman’ (1966)

Image via 20th Century Fox

Many people considered Adam West the first Batman actor because of the popularity of his Batman television series and the 1966 film. Different from the dark portrayals we see today, West’s version embraced the lighthearted, comedic tone inspired by the Silver Age comics. His Batman was endlessly polite and completely sincere, delivering absurd dialogue with seriousness. Alongside Burt Ward’s Robin, he fought the colorful rogue gallery that includes the Joker and Catwoman.

Nowadays, the series are dismissed as camp, but it was highly accurate to the comics at the time. West’s performance has aged remarkably well because he understood exactly what the show was trying to accomplish. From trying to dispose a bomb to repelling a shark, he committed fully to every ridiculous situation like it’s normal. That sincerity made the comedy work and turned his Batman into a cultural icon. In weird ways, West portrayal was foundational to all the depictions that followed. West reprised the role in the animated movies Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders and Batman vs. Two Face.

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Christian Bale – ‘The Dark Knight’ trilogy (2005 – 2012)

Image via Warner Bros.

Christian Bale portrayed Batman in Christopher Nolan‘s acclaimed The Dark Knight Trilogy. In Batman Begins, we see how he started out as the Caped Crusader and then in The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises, Bale’s Batman has to face tougher enemies like the Joker and Bane. As we see him rise, fall and rise again, his journey throughout the trilogy is the most complete character arc ever given to a live-action Batman.

Christian Bale ranks at the top because he captures every essential aspect of Batman and Bruce Wayne in the trilogy. He portrays Bruce as brilliant and compassionate, while making his Batman feel like both a threat and a protector. A reliable, Oscar-winning actor, Bale consistently delivers emotional weight alongside the spectacle. His performance became the benchmark for every subsequent live-action Batman. With his trademark growl and tactical prowess, his Batman remains the definitive cinematic interpretation of the Dark Knight.

Dr. Drew Pinsky’s wife, Susan Pinsky, had a response to a social media comment advocating for Courtney Stodden amid the model’s claim the TV personality exploited her when he conducted an on-air breast exam on her at 16.

According to a screenshot shared by Stodden, 31, on Sunday, June 28, via Instagram, Susan, 66, replied to a comment on her husband’s page where a user wrote, “Justice for @courtneystodden.”

Susan responded, “I would love to talk to her on Ask Drew. If @courtneystodden wants to duke it out with Dr. Drew.”

Dr. Drew, 67, allegedly “liked” his wife’s comment. The remark appeared to be made on Dr. Drew’s Saturday, June 27, sponsored post, which now has the comments turned off.

Related: Courtney Stodden Unveils Breast Reduction Results After Removing Implants

Courtney Stodden is opening up about a life-changing plastic surgery procedure. “Introducing the new girls 🤍,” Stodden, 31, captioned a Thursday, June 11, mirror selfie in which she showed off the results of her breast reduction in a lacy black lingerie set. “I got huge implants when I was barely 18. Today, at 31, I […]

While resharing Susan’s comment, Stodden issued a response.

“Under a comment that simply said ‘Justice for Courtney’, Dr. Drew’s wife @firstladyoflove suggested I come on his show to ‘duke it out’ with him, and @drdrewpinsky liked the comment. To me, that misses the point entirely,” she wrote via Instagram. “This isn’t entertainment. It isn’t a debate. It isn’t a ratings opportunity.”

Stodden continued, “I was a teenager when I appeared on his show. I was a minor in a situation I couldn’t legally leave, and the money from that appearance went straight to my abuser. What I’m seeing in these comments gives me hope because people understand that this isn’t about rehashing trauma for content. It’s about accountability, and it’s about protecting children from exploitation.”

Stodden also expressed her appreciation for those who have supported her.

“Thank you to everyone speaking up for me, supporting me, and recognizing how wrong this is. I see you, and l appreciate you more than you know,” she concluded.

Us Weekly has reached out to Dr. Drew’s spokesperson for comment.

Over the weekend, Stodden made headlines when she accused Dr. Drew of exploiting her when she was underage.

“Dr. Drew had me on his show when I was 16 and had me undergo an ultrasound to see if my breasts were real or if I was lying about my breasts,” Stodden alleged in a post shared via Instagram on Saturday. “I wasn’t an underage girl. I was a minor trapped in a situation that I wasn’t able to get out of legally. I had no rights at the time. The money he paid me to be on the show went straight to my abuser.”

When Stodden was 16 years old, she married actor Doug Hutchison, who was 51 at the time. (Stodden later filed for divorce from Hutchison in 2018 and the pair finalized their split in 2020.)

During their marriage, Stodden appeared on a 2011 episode of Dr. Drew’s talk show. The TV personality instructed Stodden to lie on stage in front of a studio audience as he performed a breast ultrasound to check for implants.

“These photos bring up a lot of sadness for me because I see a little girl being exploited by grown men and used for views and mockery,” she wrote alongside images of the appearance. “Dr. Drew, what made you think this was a good idea? As a doctor, did you think this was actually healthy for a little girl to experience? Did you even care?”

Dr. Waqqas Jalil, a board-trained plastic surgeon and founder of Aspect Plastic Surgery, told Us that conducting “a breast examination or imagining on a minor — particularly in a public, televised setting — raises serious ethical red flags.”

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“In a legitimate medical context, procedures like ultrasound require informed consent, privacy and a clear clinical justification,” Dr. Jalil told Us. “Using a medical tool on a young person in front of cameras, without those protections in place, isn’t medicine — it’s spectacle. Patients of any age deserve to have their bodily autonomy treated as non-negotiable.”

Us reached out to representatives for Dr. Drew for comment shortly after Stodden’s Saturday post but did not hear back.

If you know of a young person who is being exploited or is the victim of a crime, you are urged to report it to your local FBI field office by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI. Tips can also be left here.