One of the myths surrounding Batman is that DCâs iconic superhero was created by one man: Bob Kane. Thanks to a contract that Kane signed with DC in 1939, he was given sole credit for creating Batman for decades. But the reality is that writer Bill Finger co-created Batman and he added many of the elements that made the character famousâincluding Bruce Wayne, the Batmobile, Gotham City, the Batcave, Robin, Catwoman, and even co-created The Joker with Kane and Jerry Robinson.
Kane only acknowledged Finger’s contributions to Batman 15 years after his death in his 1989 autobiography. But today, DC Entertainment announced a deal with Fingerâs family to finally give Batmanâs other creator his due. Beginning later this season on Gotham, Finger will be listed as the co-creator of Batman with Kane, and he will also receive a credit on Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice.
“Bill Finger was instrumental in developing many of the key creative elements that enrich the Batman universe, and we look forward to building on our acknowledgement of his significant role in DC Comicsâ history,” noted DC Entertainment President Diane Nelson.
Finger also co-created the original Green Lantern, Alan Scott, in 1940. Fingerâs other contributions to DC included the creation of Lana Lang in the Superboy series, The Penguin, Bat-Mite, Clayface, and Betty Kane, the original Bat-Girl. Additionally, Finger wrote two episodes of the Batman TV series starring Adam West in the title role. However, Finger died in 1974 without the recognition that Kane had long received.
Comic fans, share your thoughts about Bill Finger getting his due in the comment section below!
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HT: The Hollywood Reporter
Image Credit: swfann1977/deviantART