Alfred Pennyworth is an undeniably crucial figure in Bruce Wayne's life, both as his devoted butler and as his tactical advisor in the Batcave. He's one of the few characters who knows both sides of Batman, earning the Dark Knight's trust and respect.
His character has evolved throughout the series and has been featured in numerous iterations. He's had a remarkable impact on audiences and an even more significant influence on Bruce Wayne as a father figure and close friend. Occasionally, Alfred's limits are put to the test, placing him in unbelievable situations that make little sense but are genuinely entertaining and memorable nonetheless.
10 Alfred Defeating Superman
Where many others have failed, Alfred Pennyworth succeeded. That's right - Everyone's favorite butler once battled and defeated the near-invulnerable Superman. In Injustice: Gods Among Us "Year One," a shaken Clark Kent confronts Batman, who analyzes a pill that gives users superhuman strength.
The Man of Steel brutally attacks Batman, breaking his back, allowing Alfred enough time to take the pill and acquire unprecedented power. Alfred then proceeds to attack Superman, even drawing blood and staggering the Kryptonian. Perhaps even more savagely, Alfred tells Superman how disappointed he is in his behavior. He leaves the beaten Man of Steel lying on the ground and remarks, "there's nothing worth saving here." Ouch.
9 Alfred Romancing Catwoman
Alfred has had an undeniable impact in the world of Batman, even dating back to the early 1940s. In Batman "#22," published in 1944, Alfred falls victim to a plot by Catwoman involving the robbery of wealthy estates and butlers.
Alfred is lured into revealing his connection to Batman to "Belinda" (Catwoman). Smitten by her charm, Alfred boasts that he not only knows Batman but can introduce her to him. Realizing his error, he decides to don the recognizable Batman garb and pose as the Dark Knight to impress Belinda.
8 Alfred Punching Deathstroke
If soundly beating Superman wasn't impressive enough, Alfred also confronts the formidable foe, Deathstroke. In Outsiders: Volume 4, "Issue 18," audiences get a glimpse of Alfred's former combat training as he takes on Deathstroke.
In the issue, Deathstroke nonchalantly murders two men, both of whom land on Alfred's car. Afterward, the assassin proceeds to insult Alfred and ruthlessly stab one of the dying men. Deathstroke's blatant disregard for human life is too much for Alfred, who delivers a satisfying punch to the face while reprimanding Deathstroke's barbaric behavior.
7 Alfred Becoming the Joker
Die-hard fans of the series may be familiar with Alfred's background as a makeup artist and actor after leaving the military. However, what audiences may not know is that he once disguised himself as the Joker.
In issue #686, "Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader," close friends hold a wake for the recently departed Batman. During the service, Alfred reveals there was a time when Batman didn't have any crime to fight and became depressed. To keep him busy, Alfred dressed as Joker, parading around town to egg on Batman, who eventually uncovered the ruse.
6 Alfred Commanding a Team of Superheroes
The Outsiders are a group of heroes who, for one reason or another, do not fit into the Justice League's idea of a "superhero." When Batman has a falling out with the Justice League, he trains many Outsiders and helps them form their own team.
In The Final Crisis, Following his supposed death, Batman instructs Alfred to take over as the leader of the new Outsiders. However, Batman's request is somewhat understandable, given Alfred's tactical military training and commanding presence.
5 Alfred as a Bungling Detective's Assistant
Unbeknownst to many fans, Alfred was once a "Sherlock Holmes" stereotype with a Cockney accent, who bumbled his way through being a detective's assistant. His character was initially intended to be comic relief, contrasting Batman's more stoic presence.
Alfred even had a comic of his own aptly titled The Adventures of Alfred lasting 13 issues, where he haphazardly solved crimes and caught criminals totally by accident. Thankfully, the Pre-Crisis series established Alfred as a former intelligence agent and retired actor, becoming the faithful, competent butler we all know and love today.
4 Alfred Killing a Vampire
A memorable premise of Batman Eternal revolves around Alfred, who is forced to navigate his way through the already terrifying Arkham Asylum while fending off vampires. Sharing a common goal of escape, he eventually teams up with Bane.
The pair soon encounter a vampire allowing Alfred to display his former military training expertise. He stabs the vampire in the neck without hesitation, killing it instantly. His actions even earn Bane's respect, which in itself is an unbelievable feat.
3 Alfred's Secret Love of Fanfiction
Given that Alfred is a butler to the most famous, enigmatic superhero in Gotham, it should come as little surprise that he enjoys writing fanfiction now and then. In Batman "#131," fans can read one of his fanfictions, featuring Batman and his family.
In his fanfiction, Batman is married to Batwoman, and they have a son named Bruce Jr. Batman retires from his post, handing the cape over to Dick Grayson, who becomes the new Dark Knight with Bruce Jr. as Robin.
2 Alfred Taking on the Role of Batman
Surprisingly, Alfred has taken Batman's place on several occasions. An especially memorable instance occurs in Batman's "Rebirth," where Alfred is forced to cover for the Dark Knight, who cannot be in two places at once.
Batman informs Alfred that Psycho Pirate is on a rampage, set to destroy Gotham. As Bruce Wayne is unable to get there in time, he has Alfred disguise as Batman in his place, pencil mustache and all. Fortunately, Batman soon arrives, preventing Alfred from putting his combat skills to the test.
1 Alfred Becoming a Superpowered Villain
In Detective Comics "#356," Alfred takes on the supervillain's role, "The Outsider." Alfred is presumed dead; however, Batman and Robin discover his fingerprints at a recent crime scene.
A scientist, Brandon Crawford, discovers that Alfred wasn't actually dead but rather in a coma, clinging to life. To revive the butler, Dr. Crawford unintentionally exposes Alfred to excessive radiation, transforming him into the evil Outsider. Fortunately, Batman and Robin can save Alfred using the same radiation responsible for his initial transformation.