No matter who's wearing the cape and cowl, whether it be Adam West, Michael Keaton or Christian Bale, it's the person wearing the impeccable suit and tie of butler and confidante Alfred Pennyworth who's consistently the most valuable player of the Batman franchise.

Whether its Alan Napier, Michael Gough, Michael Caine or Sean Pertwee looking out for Bruce Wayne's best interests, Alfred always comes equipped with a sharp tongue and more common sense than his employer. And for that, Slate pays tribute to the true hero of Gotham with this montage that races eight decades of Alfred on screen.

(via Geeks Are Sexy)