Our cherished masked vigilante Batman has been embodied by an array of actors over years, with notable names being the likes of Ben Affleck, Christian Bale, and the latest addition, Robert Pattinson. But the dark timeline dates back to 1989, when superhero motion pictures were in their infancy stages. The mastermind behind the set was none other than Tim Burton, who, with a stroke of genius, handed over the coveted role of Bruce Wayne in Batman to Michael Keaton.

Up ahead of the premiere of ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ on September 6, Burton donned his reminiscence hat to muse over the critical decision of casting for the iconic superhero. Though Keaton had previously shared the stage with Burton for the 1988’s Beetlejuice, it turned out that their history wasn’t the primary cause leading to the choice. Burton revealed to GQ that his decision hinged on Keaton’s particular “energy,” which he believed would lend well to the persona of both Bruce Wayne and his alter ego, Batman.

Burton elaborated his choice saying, “I love Michael because he has a certain energy. That’s why I wanted him to be in Batman, because you just look in his eyes, and he seems intelligent, scary, crazy, everything all at once.” Which, remarkably, are the exact qualities that define our enigmatic superhero.

But Burton’s casting choice wasn’t met with open arms universally, as it induced uproar with 50,000 letters of protest flowing into the inbox of Warner Bros. Keaton, on the other hand, owed it all to Burton. His portrayal in the 1988 drama ‘Clean and Sober’ convinced the director of his suitability. And so, despite the fiasco, Keaton went on to deliver what many consider, one of the most memorable Batman portrayals.

Keaton, full of gratitude, acknowledges Burton’s impact in bolstering his career. He says, “Tim deserves enormous credit. There’s a strong possibility there is no Marvel Universe, there is no DC Universe, without Tim Burton. That was a bold move.”

Keaton reprised his role in the 1992 sequel Batman Returns, made a surprise appearance in the unreleased Batgirl movie, and he’s set to enchant fans with a cameo in 2023’s The Flash.

Tim Burton and Michael Keaton Reunited for the Beetlejuice Sequel

Though whispers of Keaton stepping back into the Batman suit are still floating around, the future of his Bruce Wayne remains unbeknownst to all. However, what we do know is that he has reunited with Tim Burton for another fan-favorite role: Beetlejuice. Almost three decades post its 1988 premiere, Keaton’s ‘Ghost with the Most’ is set to entertain audiences on the big screen once again.

The formidable team of Catherine O’Hara and Winona Ryder are onboard too, reprising their roles. Despite playing the eponymous character, Keaton makes his intentions clear – the ghost, despite 17 minutes of screen time, would stay true to the original spirit, and CGI overload is a strict no-no. The entire strategy essentially hinges on the “handmade spirit” of the original.

To bring things full circle, Tim Burton shared insight into Keaton’s involvement, lauding his quick transition into the role that was just like a “weird family reunion.” Seems like, no matter how many years go by, Keaton’s allure is timeless and truly ‘Beetlejuice-tastic.’

The eccentric and wild Beetlejuice Beetlejuice hits the theaters on September 6, so grab your popcorn and let the madness take over!

Source: GQ. Go ahead and dive into more exciting details. You won’t regret it, we promise!