George Barris was a guy who could boast about a lot of exceptional things. Back in the day, he worked as a custom car designer for film and television. And he was prolific! One day he’d be designing the Batmobile that Adam West would drive in the 1960s Batman TV series, then the next he’d be customizing cars on Turbo: A Power Rangers Movie, or designing for The Beverly Hillbillies… sorry, I know you’re still stuck on the Batmobile, and so are we. It was definitely his most iconic creation.
Sadly, Barris recently passed away in his home. As the perfect, most bittersweet send-off, he was laid to rest in a casket inspired by the beloved Batmobile he created. With an airbrushed ’66 Batmobile on its side and characteristic wings on top, it’s the ultimate tribute to this incredible man. I mean, what other person would be able to transform a 1955 Lincoln Futura into the Batmobile in just two weeks, with only $15,000, and make it look beautifully badass? Seriously!
If you’re keen to learn more about Barris, head to his website, where the gallery of his film and TV custom car builds is not to be missed. My personal favorite is Alvin’s Acorn Safety Car, for Alvin and the Chipmunks. Then there’s the ZZR from Out of Sight, a teenage James Bond spoof. That’s pretty rad.
What do you think of the Batmobile-inspired casket? Was it the perfect send-off for George Barris? Hit me up on Twitter, or sound off in the comments below.
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IMAGES: Instagram/@comicbookresources/Jennifer Graylock, courtesy of Creative Commons