| Brought to you by SD Productions for Burt Ward. Copyright © 2009 - 2010. A Clements Company™. |
From Bobbi in Indiana
Question:
What was in the spray cans on the show? For example, Riddler's cans and like the can of Batgas and Bat
Awake? Just curious after all these years.
Reply from Burt:
Most of the time is was compressed air and talcum powder - you can sometimes see leftover powder on our
face and costume. The powder or gas often got caught in our throats causing us to cough and choke often
ruining scenes! There were a few times that it would get in our eyes and irritate so much that we'd have to go
to see the studio doctor!
From Tracy in Texas
Question:
Burt, did you keep any of the costumes or props from the show? Also, I heard you kept a Batgirl costume after
the show ended - do you still have that?
Reply from Burt:
Because after the 1st season, I had a couple of costumes made, I kept those. They were silk lined because the
wool itched and gave me a rash. As for props, a couple of the propmasters gave me a few things as parting
gifts, most of it has been sold off to private collectors or given to charity.
As for the Batgirl costume, I never did have an original one. I had a replica made for personal appearances I
did with another actress. For some reason, there is a rumor that I kept one from the show and supplied it for
the 1974 PSA I did with Yvonne Craig. I did offer the use of my replica, however, when they saw it, they felt it
wasn't accurate enough for the commercial, so they found another. Where they got it from I have no idea, but I
know it didn't come from me.
From Dan in Canada
Question:
Hello Burt -- Huge Fan! Can you please describe for me how the Batpole scene was filmed?
Reply from Burt:
This always seems to be a very popular question! The scene was actually shot in two parts. The first part was
done in the study. When we activated the switch in the Shakespeare bust, it would turn a light on back stage,
signalling the stage hands to pull open the bookcase. Adam and I would run to the Batpole and slide down
until we were just out of shot and land on a thick mattress about ten feet below. The director would yell "cut"
and we would climb back out on a small ladder.
The second part of the scene was much more dangerous. We would climb to a catwalk located at the top of the
sound stage about 40 feet up. From there we would climb onto the Batpole and hold on for our lives as we slid
only had two speeds - fast or faster! Also, we had to struggle to make it look natural and to ensure we were
facing the right way when we landed at the bottom. Fortunately we only shot the second part a few times and
the stock footage was used over and over during the run of the series.
From Fred
Question:
Hello, I remember watching the Batman series, and my question is that one Batman show Batman and Robin
run into the Green Hornet and his driver Kato who is known as Bruce Lee. I like to Ask Burt Ward What was it
like to meet Bruce Lee and what was he like off screen? Thank you, Fred.
Reply from Burt:
Bruce was a very fun and energetic person. I met Bruce just before he starred in the Green Hornet. In fact, I
was able to get Bruce and his wife Linda an apartment in the same building as me. Bruce and I often sparred
and jogged along the beach. We also had dinners together with our families. Watching him work was amazing
- his speed and accuracy were second to none. There's always been the ongoing story about when we filmed
the cross-over episode, that I was afraid of Bruce and was nervous working with him. In fact, nothing could
have been further from the truth. Prior to the shoot Bruce and I laughed and joked and worked on blocking
(rehearsing) the scene - people forget that there's a few hours of rehearsals to do one of those fights. By the
time we got around to filming it, we'd probably have done the scene 10 - 15 times. To this day I don't know
where that story came from because Bruce worked hard at making not only me, but everyone else on the set
very comfortable. He was a true professional and an amazing athlete.
From John (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Hi Burt! Well, I'm sure you've never received this question before: What's the scoop on the episodes release
on DVD? As a member of the 1966 Batman Message Board I here by extend an invitation to have you explain to
all your fans what the deal is (as far as you know.) I am sure that making a statement on the fan site or your
site may cut down on all the "Why are there no DVD episodes" questions. Thanks for being available to us all.
That's so cool of you! Hello to Lisa as well!
Reply from Burt:
Thanks for the question. I wish I had an answer for you, but to be quite honest, you guys probably know more
about it than me. Until Warner, Fox and Greenway can resolve their ownership issues, I have no clue as to
when we'll see it out on DVD. It certainly is long over due.
From IrishMiss (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Did you have a favorite episode and/or cliffhanger as well as an episode and/or cliffhanger that you didn't really
like???
Reply from Burt:
It's really hard to pick a favorite or least favorite due to the pace of our schedule. We filmed two episodes per
week for the first two seasons and one per week in the third. We did 120 episodes in two and a half years -
that's unheard of today! Also, aside from the crazy pace of the show, we often did not film in sequence. At any
given time, we could be filming two or three different episodes at once. The production team would take
advantage of different locations, whether we were in costume or not, and who else was on set that day. We
would film numerous "Commissioner Gordon's office" scenes at once or "Wayne Manor" scenes at once from
different episodes. So it is very difficult to pick. A favorites would certainly have to be the first episode with
Frank Gorshin - everything was so fresh and new. I did enjoy shooting the feature film as we had more time
and could really enjoy our characters. We also had more time to get to know the other cast members, and we
didn't have a lot of time to chat while shooting the TV show.
From Matt in Alabama
Question:
Hey Burt, I am a huge fan of the show and of the character Robin! Just wanted to ask why you wore a different
type material gloves in the pilot, than in the rest of the series?
Reply from Burt:
The show was rushed into production when it was picked up as a mid-season replacement. It was originally
planned as a regular season show to premiere in September of 1966. What was supposed to be at least 6
months of preparation time, turned out to be 5 weeks!!! Many of the costumes, props and even the Batmobile
weren't finished when we began production. As things were completed, they put them into the show. You'll
notice my boots also changed. Adam had the real challenge as the first cowl that was made for him was much
too small. I still remember seeing him grimace as he pulled it on and off - it was about two sizes too small.
From Gina Idol (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Hey Burt I'm a huge fan of the Batman Series. I know some of my Batman friends said that you and Yvonne
Craig were dating back then. Is that true, did you date Yvonne while doing the Batman Series?
Reply from Burt:
Yvonne is a terrific person and a great actress. We have always remained very good friends, that was the
extent of our relationship. I have nothing but the highest respect for Yvonne, and I'm thrilled that she is part of
our Bat-history. As with all our cast and guest stars, the casting of Bat girl was perfectly done, and I couldn't
possibly imagine anyone else in that role.
From Yaphet LaToison
Question:
I don't need a reply. Mr. Ward it has been a distinct pleasure to have watched your portrayal of one of my
favorite comic book characters. The character, your portrayal, and your personal accomplishments show young
people everywhere that if you have the will to prepare you have the will to succeed. Thank you for doing what
you do, especially taking care of children and animals.
Reply from Burt:
I have been very fortunate, and truly enjoy working with my family, supporting "Gentle Giants". It is very, very
rewarding!
From Jimmie in South Carolina
Question:
Outside of yours and Mr. West's portrayal of Batman & Robin, what is your favorite version of them, be it comic
book, animated, or live action?
Reply from Burt:
I can't honestly say that I'm a fan of any of the new Batman movies. They are so dark and violent and don't
compare to our series which was lighthearted and fun. I've never been a fan of any type of violence to the
extent that it was played out in the newer versions. However, we had are our version and they have theirs.
Our show has stood the test of time and is still a favorite over 40 years from when it first aired. I guess we'll
have to wait another 40 years to see if the new ones have the same appeal.
From Chuck Hankinson
Question:
Hi Burt,
I am a long time fan of the Batman TV-Series and have watched most of the reunion specials that you have
done, including one that was held on some late night network talk show of which I have forgotten the name. I
believe that it was one of Alan Napier's last public appearances. My question is this...is it true that NBC-TV
wanted to pick up the Batman TV-Series after it was cancelled, but backed out when they discovered that all of
the Bat-Sets had been destroyed? Thanks for your time.
Reply from Burt:
Hello Chuck,
Yes, the Late Show with Ross Shafer Show in 1988 was Alan's last appearance - he passed away shortly after
that aired. From what we heard, NBC did want to pick up Batman for a 4th season, but the sets had been
dismantled and some even destroyed. We had heard that it would be close to a million dollars to rebuild them
all, so NBC passed. Who knows what would have become of the show if it would have gone on to another
season.
Thanks for asking,
Burt
From Lamar Walling
Question:
I'm a huge fan, my favorite episode is the clam. I notice your boots were moving. What type of material were
your boots made of. How did they fit them? They remind me of dancing shoes but look like boots. What size
were they?
Reply from Burt:
My boots were lined with leather and made of suede on the outside. They were very hot and not very
comfortable to wear. The little wings which extended outside of either side of the boots made walking a little
more difficult and took some getting used to. As part of the auditions, I had to give my glove size, boot size
and all other clothing measurements. My shoe size is 8.5 - I'm hoping you're asking because you're sending me
some new shoes for Christmas!
Thanks,
Burt
From James Bell
Question:
Hiya, Burt,
My question is this: Out of EVERY SINGLE Batman Villain, exactly WHICH ONE was your ABSOLUTE favourite??
From James Bell.
P.S. I really hope this Bat-message gets to you, I REALLY do!!
Reply from Burt:
Hello James,
I have been asked this question many times over the years, and it never gets any easier to answer. Its very
hard to single out any particular person. I would have to say that those I've stay in contact with over the years
are very near and dear to my heart. Julie Newmar and Yvonne Craig to just name a couple. Frank Gorshin was
a great friend and enjoyed time at my home shortly before he passed.
As for favorite characters on the show, the Riddler is certainly one of my favorites. His sense of menace and
twisted persona added a certain energy to not only the show as it aired, but to the set when we were filming.
I hope this answers your question,
Burt
Question:
Mr. Ward,
I was born in 1969, so I grew up watching Batman from the re-runs of the early 1970's. Just so you know,
some of your fans never really grew up. I am a professor in a university's graduate school of educational
leadership--in other words I help prepare principals. I still watch Batman every chance I get. I wish it was on
DVD already.
Here are some questions. I hopes these haven't been asked before.
1. Were any parts of the TV shows filmed on location somewhere off set? If so, can you tell us a few?
2. When you played basketball, was that gym a set or a real school? If so, what school?
3. Did you ever appear in the Chicago area at any time to promote the show or guest at a convention?
Thank you for the childhood memories. Sitting and watching the show, always brings back good memories of
childhood.
Thank you for your time.
Dr. Mark H. Gordon, D.D., Ed.D.(A.B.D.)
Professor of Educational Leadership and Research
Reply from Burt:
Greetings Dr Gordon!
Thanks for your question - I'll try my best to answer them, but after forty plus years, things are sometimes
foggy - unless you can prescribe something to help me recall!
We did do quite a bit of location shoots - many during the feature film. Some of the places we used were of
course the Batcave entrance/exit at Bronson Canyon, Torrance Beach in Torrance, just south of Redondo
Beach, Marineland, Santa Monica pier, and there was also a park close to the studio which we used quite often
as "Gotham Park" or whenever we needed sprawling landscape shots.
The gym shots were done on a sound stage at Culver City Studios - they had a complete gym set up and it was
redressed as needed. It has been used in dozens of TV shows and movies.
I hope this answers your questions. I need to go rest after this one!
Thanks,
Burt
Oh, I have been to Chicago numerous times for appearances, but nothing in the past 15 years or so.
Question:
What was in the spray cans on the show? For example, Riddler's cans and like the can of Batgas and Bat
Awake? Just curious after all these years.
Reply from Burt:
Most of the time is was compressed air and talcum powder - you can sometimes see leftover powder on our
face and costume. The powder or gas often got caught in our throats causing us to cough and choke often
ruining scenes! There were a few times that it would get in our eyes and irritate so much that we'd have to go
to see the studio doctor!
From Tracy in Texas
Question:
Burt, did you keep any of the costumes or props from the show? Also, I heard you kept a Batgirl costume after
the show ended - do you still have that?
Reply from Burt:
Because after the 1st season, I had a couple of costumes made, I kept those. They were silk lined because the
wool itched and gave me a rash. As for props, a couple of the propmasters gave me a few things as parting
gifts, most of it has been sold off to private collectors or given to charity.
As for the Batgirl costume, I never did have an original one. I had a replica made for personal appearances I
did with another actress. For some reason, there is a rumor that I kept one from the show and supplied it for
the 1974 PSA I did with Yvonne Craig. I did offer the use of my replica, however, when they saw it, they felt it
wasn't accurate enough for the commercial, so they found another. Where they got it from I have no idea, but I
know it didn't come from me.
From Dan in Canada
Question:
Hello Burt -- Huge Fan! Can you please describe for me how the Batpole scene was filmed?
Reply from Burt:
This always seems to be a very popular question! The scene was actually shot in two parts. The first part was
done in the study. When we activated the switch in the Shakespeare bust, it would turn a light on back stage,
signalling the stage hands to pull open the bookcase. Adam and I would run to the Batpole and slide down
until we were just out of shot and land on a thick mattress about ten feet below. The director would yell "cut"
and we would climb back out on a small ladder.
The second part of the scene was much more dangerous. We would climb to a catwalk located at the top of the
sound stage about 40 feet up. From there we would climb onto the Batpole and hold on for our lives as we slid
only had two speeds - fast or faster! Also, we had to struggle to make it look natural and to ensure we were
facing the right way when we landed at the bottom. Fortunately we only shot the second part a few times and
the stock footage was used over and over during the run of the series.
From Fred
Question:
Hello, I remember watching the Batman series, and my question is that one Batman show Batman and Robin
run into the Green Hornet and his driver Kato who is known as Bruce Lee. I like to Ask Burt Ward What was it
like to meet Bruce Lee and what was he like off screen? Thank you, Fred.
Reply from Burt:
Bruce was a very fun and energetic person. I met Bruce just before he starred in the Green Hornet. In fact, I
was able to get Bruce and his wife Linda an apartment in the same building as me. Bruce and I often sparred
and jogged along the beach. We also had dinners together with our families. Watching him work was amazing
- his speed and accuracy were second to none. There's always been the ongoing story about when we filmed
the cross-over episode, that I was afraid of Bruce and was nervous working with him. In fact, nothing could
have been further from the truth. Prior to the shoot Bruce and I laughed and joked and worked on blocking
(rehearsing) the scene - people forget that there's a few hours of rehearsals to do one of those fights. By the
time we got around to filming it, we'd probably have done the scene 10 - 15 times. To this day I don't know
where that story came from because Bruce worked hard at making not only me, but everyone else on the set
very comfortable. He was a true professional and an amazing athlete.
From John (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Hi Burt! Well, I'm sure you've never received this question before: What's the scoop on the episodes release
on DVD? As a member of the 1966 Batman Message Board I here by extend an invitation to have you explain to
all your fans what the deal is (as far as you know.) I am sure that making a statement on the fan site or your
site may cut down on all the "Why are there no DVD episodes" questions. Thanks for being available to us all.
That's so cool of you! Hello to Lisa as well!
Reply from Burt:
Thanks for the question. I wish I had an answer for you, but to be quite honest, you guys probably know more
about it than me. Until Warner, Fox and Greenway can resolve their ownership issues, I have no clue as to
when we'll see it out on DVD. It certainly is long over due.
From IrishMiss (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Did you have a favorite episode and/or cliffhanger as well as an episode and/or cliffhanger that you didn't really
like???
Reply from Burt:
It's really hard to pick a favorite or least favorite due to the pace of our schedule. We filmed two episodes per
week for the first two seasons and one per week in the third. We did 120 episodes in two and a half years -
that's unheard of today! Also, aside from the crazy pace of the show, we often did not film in sequence. At any
given time, we could be filming two or three different episodes at once. The production team would take
advantage of different locations, whether we were in costume or not, and who else was on set that day. We
would film numerous "Commissioner Gordon's office" scenes at once or "Wayne Manor" scenes at once from
different episodes. So it is very difficult to pick. A favorites would certainly have to be the first episode with
Frank Gorshin - everything was so fresh and new. I did enjoy shooting the feature film as we had more time
and could really enjoy our characters. We also had more time to get to know the other cast members, and we
didn't have a lot of time to chat while shooting the TV show.
From Matt in Alabama
Question:
Hey Burt, I am a huge fan of the show and of the character Robin! Just wanted to ask why you wore a different
type material gloves in the pilot, than in the rest of the series?
Reply from Burt:
The show was rushed into production when it was picked up as a mid-season replacement. It was originally
planned as a regular season show to premiere in September of 1966. What was supposed to be at least 6
months of preparation time, turned out to be 5 weeks!!! Many of the costumes, props and even the Batmobile
weren't finished when we began production. As things were completed, they put them into the show. You'll
notice my boots also changed. Adam had the real challenge as the first cowl that was made for him was much
too small. I still remember seeing him grimace as he pulled it on and off - it was about two sizes too small.
From Gina Idol (Member of the 1966 Batman Message Board)
Question:
Hey Burt I'm a huge fan of the Batman Series. I know some of my Batman friends said that you and Yvonne
Craig were dating back then. Is that true, did you date Yvonne while doing the Batman Series?
Reply from Burt:
Yvonne is a terrific person and a great actress. We have always remained very good friends, that was the
extent of our relationship. I have nothing but the highest respect for Yvonne, and I'm thrilled that she is part of
our Bat-history. As with all our cast and guest stars, the casting of Bat girl was perfectly done, and I couldn't
possibly imagine anyone else in that role.
From Yaphet LaToison
Question:
I don't need a reply. Mr. Ward it has been a distinct pleasure to have watched your portrayal of one of my
favorite comic book characters. The character, your portrayal, and your personal accomplishments show young
people everywhere that if you have the will to prepare you have the will to succeed. Thank you for doing what
you do, especially taking care of children and animals.
Reply from Burt:
I have been very fortunate, and truly enjoy working with my family, supporting "Gentle Giants". It is very, very
rewarding!
From Jimmie in South Carolina
Question:
Outside of yours and Mr. West's portrayal of Batman & Robin, what is your favorite version of them, be it comic
book, animated, or live action?
Reply from Burt:
I can't honestly say that I'm a fan of any of the new Batman movies. They are so dark and violent and don't
compare to our series which was lighthearted and fun. I've never been a fan of any type of violence to the
extent that it was played out in the newer versions. However, we had are our version and they have theirs.
Our show has stood the test of time and is still a favorite over 40 years from when it first aired. I guess we'll
have to wait another 40 years to see if the new ones have the same appeal.
From Chuck Hankinson
Question:
Hi Burt,
I am a long time fan of the Batman TV-Series and have watched most of the reunion specials that you have
done, including one that was held on some late night network talk show of which I have forgotten the name. I
believe that it was one of Alan Napier's last public appearances. My question is this...is it true that NBC-TV
wanted to pick up the Batman TV-Series after it was cancelled, but backed out when they discovered that all of
the Bat-Sets had been destroyed? Thanks for your time.
Reply from Burt:
Hello Chuck,
Yes, the Late Show with Ross Shafer Show in 1988 was Alan's last appearance - he passed away shortly after
that aired. From what we heard, NBC did want to pick up Batman for a 4th season, but the sets had been
dismantled and some even destroyed. We had heard that it would be close to a million dollars to rebuild them
all, so NBC passed. Who knows what would have become of the show if it would have gone on to another
season.
Thanks for asking,
Burt
From Lamar Walling
Question:
I'm a huge fan, my favorite episode is the clam. I notice your boots were moving. What type of material were
your boots made of. How did they fit them? They remind me of dancing shoes but look like boots. What size
were they?
Reply from Burt:
My boots were lined with leather and made of suede on the outside. They were very hot and not very
comfortable to wear. The little wings which extended outside of either side of the boots made walking a little
more difficult and took some getting used to. As part of the auditions, I had to give my glove size, boot size
and all other clothing measurements. My shoe size is 8.5 - I'm hoping you're asking because you're sending me
some new shoes for Christmas!
Thanks,
Burt
From James Bell
Question:
Hiya, Burt,
My question is this: Out of EVERY SINGLE Batman Villain, exactly WHICH ONE was your ABSOLUTE favourite??
From James Bell.
P.S. I really hope this Bat-message gets to you, I REALLY do!!
Reply from Burt:
Hello James,
I have been asked this question many times over the years, and it never gets any easier to answer. Its very
hard to single out any particular person. I would have to say that those I've stay in contact with over the years
are very near and dear to my heart. Julie Newmar and Yvonne Craig to just name a couple. Frank Gorshin was
a great friend and enjoyed time at my home shortly before he passed.
As for favorite characters on the show, the Riddler is certainly one of my favorites. His sense of menace and
twisted persona added a certain energy to not only the show as it aired, but to the set when we were filming.
I hope this answers your question,
Burt
Question:
Mr. Ward,
I was born in 1969, so I grew up watching Batman from the re-runs of the early 1970's. Just so you know,
some of your fans never really grew up. I am a professor in a university's graduate school of educational
leadership--in other words I help prepare principals. I still watch Batman every chance I get. I wish it was on
DVD already.
Here are some questions. I hopes these haven't been asked before.
1. Were any parts of the TV shows filmed on location somewhere off set? If so, can you tell us a few?
2. When you played basketball, was that gym a set or a real school? If so, what school?
3. Did you ever appear in the Chicago area at any time to promote the show or guest at a convention?
Thank you for the childhood memories. Sitting and watching the show, always brings back good memories of
childhood.
Thank you for your time.
Dr. Mark H. Gordon, D.D., Ed.D.(A.B.D.)
Professor of Educational Leadership and Research
Reply from Burt:
Greetings Dr Gordon!
Thanks for your question - I'll try my best to answer them, but after forty plus years, things are sometimes
foggy - unless you can prescribe something to help me recall!
We did do quite a bit of location shoots - many during the feature film. Some of the places we used were of
course the Batcave entrance/exit at Bronson Canyon, Torrance Beach in Torrance, just south of Redondo
Beach, Marineland, Santa Monica pier, and there was also a park close to the studio which we used quite often
as "Gotham Park" or whenever we needed sprawling landscape shots.
The gym shots were done on a sound stage at Culver City Studios - they had a complete gym set up and it was
redressed as needed. It has been used in dozens of TV shows and movies.
I hope this answers your questions. I need to go rest after this one!
Thanks,
Burt
Oh, I have been to Chicago numerous times for appearances, but nothing in the past 15 years or so.
| The Official Website of Burt Ward |
| Why Not Ask Burt? Do you have a question you would like to ask Burt? Ever wondered about something on the TV Series or Movie? Well, now you can "Ask Burt". Click on the graphic above and ask Burt your question! We will randomly choose questions and replies to post. Sorry... but we can't post everyone's questions. |
