Many iconic DC villains graced the screen inBatman: The Animated Series, but there were also numerous villains left on the cutting room floor. Some were deemed too dark, others simply didn’t fit the tone of theDCshow, and a few were outright vetoed by the studio. However, creators Bruce Timm and Paul Dini have revealed fascinating behind-the-scenes details about these unused characters. They’ve also speculated on who would have voiced them if they had made it into the series.
The creative team behindBatman: The Animated Seriesincluded Bruce Timm, Paul Dini, and a stellar roster of writers and directors who redefined the Dark Knight’srogues' gallery forBatman: TAS. Timm and Dini, in particular, often share behind-the-scenes tidbits through interviews and fan sites likeThe World’s Finest. They’ve revealed details about villains who almost appeared on the show, how likely their inclusion was, and the actors they envisioned for these roles.
18Anarky
To Be Played By Kevin Smith
Anarky, a teenage revolutionary bent on dismantling corrupt systems, would have been a bold addition toBatman: The Animated Series. However, Dini called Anarky’s inclusion a“longshot”due tohis overt political themes. Still, his philosophy could have offered a thought-provoking clash with Batman’s ideals.
Dini believed Kevin Smith, known for his sharp wit and strong comic book background, would have been perfect to voice Anarky. Smith is a director and actor, best known as one half of Jay and Silent Bob. Smith’s passionate delivery could have highlighted the villain’s ideological fervor, creating a memorable adversary.
17Black Mask
To Be Played By James Earl Jones
Black Mask is a brutal crime boss with a penchant for torture. He would have been a terrifying addition toBatman: TAS. As such, Dini classified Black Mask’s inclusion as a“maybe,”acknowledging thathis darker themes might have clashed with the show’s constraints.
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James Earl Jones was Dini’s dream choice for Black Mask. Jones’ commanding and menacing voice would have addedan extra layer of gravitas to the villain, much as he had withStar Wars' Darth Vader. Earls would have made him a chilling counterpart to Batman.
16Calendar Man
To Be Played By Matt Frewer
Calendar Man, known for committing crimes tied to specific dates, was a“doubtful”inclusion according to Dini. This was largely because the seriesintroduced a female counterpart loosely based on the charactercalled Calendar Girl. Still, Calendar Man’s obsession with time could have made for an intriguing episode ofBatman: The Animated Series.
Dini suggested that Matt Frewer play Calander Man inBatman: TAS.Frewer is known for his eccentric performances andwould have been the perfect actor for Calendar Man. Frewer’s ability to balance humor and menace would have made the character stand out.
15Catman
To Be Played By Scott Cleverdon
Catman technically appeared in theBatman: The Animated Seriesepisode “Cult of the Cat” as Thomas Blake. However, he isnot in costume or wearing his supervillain name. Dini wanted a more traditional portrayal of the character as a rival to Catwoman to follow after his introduction.
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Scott Cleverdon voiced Tomas Blake inBatman: TAS. Paul Dini would havewanted Cleverdon to return for a full-fledged Catman. Cleverdon’s performance hinted at what could have been a fascinating exploration of Catman’s relationship with Catwoman.
14The Cavalier
To Be Played By Tim Curry
The Cavalier, a flamboyant swashbuckler, was initially planned forBatman: The Animated Series.However, his inclusion was later deemed a“longshot”by Dini. His chivalrous demeanorcould have provided an interesting counterpoint to Batman’s stoicism.
Dini envisioned Tim Curry for the role of the Cavalier inBatman: TAS.Curry’s theatrical voice and ability to bring charisma to villainswould have made the Cavalier a memorable addition. Interestingly, Curry was the original voice of the Joker before falling ill and being replaced by Mark Hamill.
13Deadshot
To Be Played By Michael Rosenbaum
Deadshot is aninfamous DC assassinwho repeatedly clashes with Batman in the comics. Deadshot nearly appeared inBatman: The Animated Series,but was ultimately reserved forJustice League. The character’s precision and moral ambiguity could have made him a fascinating foe for Batman.
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Paul Dini wanted Michael Rosenbaum to play the villain after his performance as the foe inJustice League.Rosenbaum would have brought a sharp and confident energy to the character. His portrayal in later projectsdemonstrated the potential he had for this role.
12Doctor Destiny
To Be Played By William Atherton
Dr. Destiny is a fascinating villain who manipulates dreams. Though Dr. Destiny was considered forBatman: TASbut ultimately shelved. His reality-warping abilities could have created a visually stunning and psychologically intense episode that would have flourished in animation.
William Atherton was Dini’s choice for Dr. Destiny inBatman: TAS. Atherton, known for his role inDie Hard,had actually voiced thevillain in the animatedJustice Leagueseries. Atherton’s sinister tone and chilling delivery would have elevated the character’s eerie presence.
11Egghead
To Be Played By Maurice LaMarche
Egghead is a campy villain invented for the 1960sBatmanseries, originally played by Vincent Price. However, Egghead was a hard“no”from theBatman: TASteam. Regardless, Dini admitted he had a soft spot for the character andthought he could work as comic relief.
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Maurice LaMarche was Dini’s choice forBatman: TAS.LaMarche is a versatile voice actor known for his work onPinky and the Brain. LaMarche’s comedic timing and iconic voicecould have modernized Egghead’s ridiculous gimmickwhile keeping him entertaining.
10Film Freak
To Be Played By Rich Little
Film Freak is a unique Batman foe, cinephile who uses movies as inspiration for his crimes. Film Freak’s inclusion inBatman: The Animated Serieswas labeled“doubtful”by Dini. Still, hisobsession with Hollywood could have made for a clever and unique episode.
Paul Dini wanted Rich Little to voice Film Freak. Rich Little is a respected comedian and impressionist with a long career in American entertainment. Little’s ability to mimic famous voices could haveadded depth to the character’s movie-inspired antics.
9The General
To Be Played By Haley Joel Osment
The General is a child prodigy and military strategist who istraditionally portrayed as a psychopathic child. Dini considered including the villain inBatman: TAS, possibly as a contemporary of Dick Grayson. His calculating nature and young age would have created a fascinating dynamic with Batman, but Dini considered the possibility of including him a “maybe.”
Haley Joel Osment was Dini’s top choice for the role of the General inBatman: TAS. Osment had just starred inThe Sixth Senseand was widely praised for his surprisingly mature acting talent. Osment’syouthful yet commanding voicecould have captured the character’s intelligence and arrogance.
