Ethan Hawke's Batman: The Unlikely Voice Behind a Hidden DC Series
Ethan Hawke, the versatile actor known for his roles in films like 'Training Day' and 'The Hateful Eight', has been quietly lending his voice to a lesser-known DC animated series, 'Batwheels'. This series, aimed at young audiences, features the adventures of Batman's sentient vehicles, with Hawke's Batman making appearances in 20 out of 74 episodes. But here's the intriguing part: Hawke has a history with the iconic superhero.
In the 1990s, Hawke was on the shortlist to portray Batman in the film 'Batman Forever'. However, he turned down the role, citing his desire to focus on other projects. Fast forward to the present, and Hawke's Batman is now a beloved character in the animated series 'Batwheels'. His portrayal has been praised for its grit and gravelly voice, reminiscent of the late Kevin Conroy, whose performance in 'Batman: The Animated Series' is iconic among fans.
The Evolution of Hawke's Batman
Hawke's journey with Batman is a fascinating one. He initially turned down the role in the 1990s, preferring to explore other opportunities. But now, he's found his ideal portrayal of the Dark Knight, bringing a unique energy to the character. The co-executive producer of 'Batwheels', Michael G. Stern, noted that Hawke's Batman embodies the 'exhausted dad energy' that the character needs to guide the Batwheels through their adventures.
A Hidden Gem for Batman Fans
'Batwheels' is a hidden gem for fans of the Caped Crusader. While it may not have the same mainstream recognition as other Batman media, it offers a fresh and engaging take on the character. With Hawke's voice bringing a new depth to Batman, the series has found a dedicated audience, especially among children. As the show continues with its third season set to premiere in 2025, fans can look forward to more of Hawke's Batman, a character that he has finally embraced as his own.
The series is streaming on HBO Max, offering a delightful blend of action, humor, and the iconic Batman voice that fans have come to love.
