DC: Ranking Batman's Closest Allies

Highlights

Batman's closest friends include Zatanna and Barry Allen, with whom he shares professional and personal bonds.

Batman's bond with Commissioner Gordon is rooted in trust and unwavering loyalty, as he is the sole member of the police force Batman relies on.

As one of the most legendary superheroes in the DC universe, Batman is often associated with his lone crusade. However, the DC Comics showcase his ability to connect, cooperate, and form deep connections with a diverse array of remarkable characters. Whether they possess extraordinary abilities or lack secret identities, Batman's alliances with various DC heroes thrive. Among them, Bruce Wayne and Batman seamlessly merge into one persona.

7. Commissioner Gordon

Batman's loyal companions consist of his wards, his associates in law enforcement, and even fellow superheroes. While Batman and Bruce Wayne lead separate public lives, their friendships remain constant, and the majority of Batman's most reliable confidants are his dearest friends.

Debut Comic:

Detective Comics #27

Creator:

Bill Finger and Bob Kane

Few individuals possess the unwavering loyalty and trustworthiness comparable to that of Jim Gordon, the esteemed Police Commissioner of Gotham City. Alongside Batman, Gordon has weathered countless trials, notably enduring the malevolent and twisted machinations of the Joker, resulting in the crippling of Barbara Gordon, Jim's own daughter and an invaluable ally of the Dark Knight known as Batgirl. Within the ranks of the Gotham City Police Department, Gordon stands as the sole individual whom Batman can place unequivocal trust in, forging a profound and enduring professional camaraderie between the two.

6. Zatanna

The retired Bruce Wayne and Jim Gordon, who is also on the verge of retiring, share a strong friendship in The Dark Knight Returns, beyond the boundaries of the current canon. They often indulge in dinner outings, savor drinks, and exchange captivating stories. However, despite their close bond, Batman remains resolute in not revealing his secret to Gordon until the latter's retirement.

Debut Comic:

Hawkman #4

Creator:

Gardner Fox and Murphy Anderson are known for their collaboration on the characters Zatanna and Bruce Wayne. Having grown up together, it comes as no surprise that they share a close friendship. Their bond runs deep, extending beyond their superhero alter egos. This unique connection originated long before the tragic loss of Bruce's parents and his transformation into the enigmatic Batman.

There were moments in the comics that put the friendship between Zatanna and Batman to the test, particularly when magic was employed to betray Bruce's trust by one of his oldest companions. As a result, their relationship became slightly strained, causing Zatanna to no longer hold the title of Batman's closest confidant.

5. Barry Allen, The Flash

Debut Comic:

Showcase #4

Creator:

Robert Kanigher and Carmine Infantino

Barry Allen and Bruce Wayne have developed a strong bond over time, particularly after the Flashpoint incident that initiated the New 52. The dynamic duo of the Flash and Batman showcases their impressive intellect, with Batman's detective expertise complemented by the Flash's forensic science background. They both carry the weight of shared past trauma and can switch to a serious demeanor whenever necessary.

4. Wonder Woman

The bond between Barry and Bruce grew immensely when the Flash returned from the Flashpoint timeline bearing a letter from Thomas Wayne, who was not only the Batman of Flashpoint but also Bruce's father. This heartfelt letter brought Bruce to tears and stood out as one of the most cherished gifts he had ever received, with The Flash acting as the perfect messenger.

Debut Comic:

All Star Comics #8

Creator:

In recent years, Wonder Woman and Batman have become inseparable, despite their occasional arguments and stubbornness, as part of the DC Trinity alongside Superman.

3. Nightwing

In a nightmarish dimension known as Hell, Batman and Wonder Woman found themselves trapped, where time expanded at an alarming rate. The passage of 24 hours on Earth equated to years and even decades in this treacherous realm. Over almost four decades, the two iconic heroes stood side by side, forging a deep bond amidst their isolation. Their prolonged companionship, however, gave rise to a burgeoning romantic tension that threatened to jeopardize their cherished friendship.

Debut Comic:

Tales of the Teen Titans #44

Creator:

Marv Wolfman and George Perez

Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne's initial ward, is not only a son but also a close friend to both Bruce and Batman. Grayson, who was the very first Robin, eventually created his own persona as Nightwing. Despite occasional difficulties and strained relationships, their bond as friends and as a father and son is unbreakable. It is truly heartening to witness Batman openly recognizing Nightwing as his son and his dearest confidant.

Bruce and Dick have a common experience of trauma, as both of them witnessed the deaths of their parents at a young age. Bruce has played a crucial role in nurturing Dick Grayson into the person he could never become himself. The depth and complexity of their friendship create a remarkable bond between these heroes.

2. Alfred Pennyworth

Debut Comic:

Batman #16

Creator:

Don Cameron, Bob Kane, Bill Finger, and Jerry Robinson form the team responsible for creating a significant character in Batman. However, it is impossible to imagine Bruce Wayne without his loyal and indispensable servant, Alfred Pennyworth. After the tragic loss of his parents, Alfred became the sole family member Bruce had left and filled the role of a father figure. Sharing an unbreakable bond, Bruce confides in Alfred, relying on him for support, guidance, and even assistance in recovering from injuries sustained in his relentless fight against evil forces. In essence, Alfred serves as Bruce's ultimate ally, always by his side.

1. Superman

Bruce and Alfred's relationship dates back to Bruce's birth, and their connection is unbreakable. Among all the characters in Batman's world, none are as crucial as Alfred. On the surface, he may appear to be a devoted butler, but in reality, he is Bruce's father figure and closest confidant. In a world that has turned its back on Batman, Alfred provides him with unwavering support and solace.

Debut Comic:

Action Comics #1

Creator:

Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, the creators of Superman, are often hailed as the World's Finest. While there have been numerous conflicts depicted in animated adaptations and films, their comic book versions embody a true friendship. The optimistic symbol of hope that is Superman perfectly complements Batman's brooding persona, resulting in a captivating and contrasting dynamic that solidifies their bond as the best of friends.

Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent have an unparalleled level of mutual respect, surpassing any other. They have embarked on numerous daring escapades together, both while in their superhero personas and beyond. Batman and Superman, as alter egos, share a deep bond and friendship that is truly exceptional. Throughout any circumstance, they consistently offer unwavering support and loyalty to one another.