The Joker: Through the years

“The Joker is Wild” and “Batman is Riled” (1966)

[Originally aired on ABC's "Batman," Jan. 26-27]

The Setup: Well-known “Latin lover” Cesar Romero was the first actor to play the Joker, giving one of his best performances in this early entry in the TV series in which he’s sprung from prison with a giant spring, sings opera (Pagliacci, of course) and attempts to unmask Batman and Robin on live TV.

The Punch Line: The murderous Joker of the 1940s was toned down significantly after political pressure lead comics publishers to stop depicting violent crimes. That left the Joker with nothing but the corny gimmicks, such as sleeping gas and trick confetti, used in these episodes in the classic show. Romero, who famously refused to shave his mustache for the role, made the most of the goofiness, creating a maniacal laugh that has influenced every subsequent take on the Joker.