While there is an ongoing debate about which actor better embodies Batman in live-action, there’s no question as to who the real Batman is — Kevin Conroy. For over 25 years, the Batman: The Animated Series actor has voiced the character in countless projects, delivering some of the Dark Knight’s most beloved performances. His Batman helped establish Mr. Freeze as a sympathetic character, his Batman mentored Terry McGinnis, his Batman shed tears over a letter from Thomas Wayne, his Batman overcame his own deteriorating mental health to psychologically defeat the Joker. And yet, Conroy’s Batman has never delivered the iconic “you either die a hero or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain” line from Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight. Until now.
On the Nerdist’s Talkin’ Toons show, voice acting vets Rob Paulsen and Kevin Conroy appeared as guests. The Dark Knight script was brought out and something incredible soon ensued. Voicing Jim Gordon, Paulsen (aka the voice of our childhoods) recited the lines Gary Oldman spoke to Christian Bale’s Batman following Harvey Dent’s death. Of course, Batman’s famous response was only enhanced by Conroy. You can listen to the chilling exchange here.
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