Live-Action Television
The Joker sprang to life for television viewers in 1966 with the episodic series, Batman. Played by Cesar Romero, the villain was depicted as a version more in line with the Silver Age comic book character – a little lighter in tone – as befit the cartoonish series as a whole. This tonal shift was reflective of that which occurred in comic book publishing, following the 1954 adoption of the Comics Code Authority – designed to curb disturbing and horrific content.
Romero’s Joker was as unsettling as it was possible to be within that framework, however. His clown-face make-up, wide-eyed expression and broad grin made for an intimidating appearance, and his development of the Joker laugh quickly became iconic. This same portrayal also featured in Batman: The Movie in 1966, and cemented Cesar Romero as a star in the Batman firmament.
The TV series Gotham – intended to depict the early years of Gotham Police Officer James Gordon – has also featured a character that will arguably, eventually be The Joker – although the character name is Jerome Valeska. His introduction in episode 16 of the first season certainly implied that the teenager, played by Cameron Monaghan, would evolve into the Clown Prince Of Crime at some point, though he has appeared in only five episodes to date.
