For decades, Barbara Gordon, better known as Batgirl, has stood out as one of DC Comics’ most iconic and inspiring heroines. From her crime-fighting days as the self-trained Batgirl to her role as the mastermind Oracle and her triumphant return as Batgirl, Barbara’s story is one of resilience, brilliance, and courage. As my personal favorite female DC superheroine, Batgirl’s journey has always captivated me, and I’ve eagerly followed her adventures in comics, cartoons, and live-action adaptations. Let’s take a closer look at Barbara’s history, the portrayals that brought her to life, and the key storylines—both celebrated and controversial—that shaped her legacy.
1. Origins: The First Batgirl
Before Barbara Gordon took on the mantle, the name "Bat-Girl" first belonged to Betty Kane, introduced in Batman #139 in 1961. Created by writer Bill Finger and artist Sheldon Moldoff, Betty was brought in as the niece of Batwoman (Kathy Kane) and became the sidekick to Robin. However, Betty Kane’s Bat-Girl was phased out in the early 1960s, along with Batwoman, when the Batman series took a more serious direction under editor Julius Schwartz.
In 1967, Barbara Gordon became the new and official Batgirl. First appearing in Detective Comics #359 in “The Million Dollar Debut of Batgirl!” by writer Gardner Fox and artist Carmine Infantino, Barbara quickly captured fans’ hearts with her intelligence, independence, and self-made heroism. Unlike the original Bat-Girl, Barbara was a trained librarian and Ph.D. holder, a woman with no connection to Bruce Wayne or Gotham’s elite. Her determination to make a difference as a costumed hero was born out of her own desire for justice.
2. Barbara Gordon: The Iconic Batgirl
Barbara Gordon’s Batgirl stood out for many reasons, especially because she was a self-trained hero who worked alongside Batman and Robin without any formal mentorship from Bruce Wayne. Her independence and self-reliance were refreshing, making her a strong role model for readers. Yvonne Craig’s portrayal of Batgirl in the 1966 Batman TV series further cemented her popularity. Craig’s Batgirl was dynamic, courageous, and brought an extra layer of charm to the character with her purple costume, red wig, and Batcycle. I loved watching the reruns on Fox Family Channel, and seeing Batgirl’s Batcycle zoom by the Batmobile in the opening sequence was always a thrill.
Barbara’s debut episode, "Enter Batgirl, Exit Penguin," begins with her being kidnapped by the Penguin, who plans to marry her to gain leverage over her father. Unbeknownst to the Penguin, Barbara has a hidden identity as Batgirl and manages to escape, teaming up with Batman and Robin to foil the villain's scheme. This episode highlighted Batgirl’s resourcefulness and fighting skills, setting her up as an equal partner to the Dynamic Duo.
Yvonne Craig’s portrayal made Batgirl instantly popular, and she became a recurring character, appearing in all of the third season’s episodes. With her purple costume, bright red wig, and custom Batcycle, Craig’s Batgirl brought a new energy to the show and became an iconic addition to the Batman legacy.
In the 1960s Batman TV series, Batgirl was known for her signature style of fighting, which often included high kicks, spins, and even a bit of dancing flair. Yvonne Craig, who portrayed Batgirl, brought elegance and agility to the character, and her dance background added a unique style to her fight scenes. However, Batgirl’s action sequences were somewhat restricted compared to Batman and Robin's, as she wasn’t often shown punching villains directly.
Producers at the time were cautious about showing a female hero engaging in more intense hand-to-hand combat, possibly due to societal norms and television standards of the era. This limitation often left Batgirl performing stylish kicks and spins while Batman and Robin were allowed more direct fighting techniques, like punches and grappling moves. Many fans, including yourself, would have loved to see her go toe-to-toe with villains, landing punches alongside Batman and Robin.
Yvonne Craig herself expressed that she wanted Batgirl to be seen as more capable and fully integrated into the action. Despite these restrictions, she made Batgirl a memorable, spirited character who showcased strength and courage—paving the way for future portrayals of female superheroes with more freedom in their fight scenes.
In the comics, Barbara’s early adventures as Batgirl often showcased her crime-solving skills, intellect, and combat abilities. She formed friendships with Batman and Robin, particularly with Dick Grayson, the original Robin, who would later become Nightwing. Their chemistry and partnership were palpable, and the two have become one of DC’s most beloved pairs.
3. The Tragic Turning Point: The Killing Joke
One of the most controversial storylines in Barbara’s history occurred in Batman: The Killing Joke, a 1988 graphic novel written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland. In this storyline, Barbara is brutally attacked and paralyzed by the Joker as part of his plot to psychologically torment her father, Commissioner James Gordon. The scene was shocking and controversial, sparking debates about the treatment of female characters in comics. Barbara’s injury seemed like a narrative tool, sidelining a beloved character to deepen Batman’s conflict with the Joker.
However, Barbara’s journey didn’t end there. In the years following The Killing Joke, DC writers and fans saw an opportunity to take Barbara’s story in a new direction, transforming her into one of the most powerful and influential figures in the DC Universe: Oracle.
4. From Batgirl to Oracle: Barbara’s New Identity
Barbara’s transition from Batgirl to Oracle marked a significant and inspiring shift in her character. Rather than being defeated by her injury, Barbara reinvented herself as Oracle, using her intelligence and technical expertise to become an information broker and hacker for the superhero community. She established herself as the eyes and ears of Gotham’s heroes, offering guidance, resources, and strategic insights that made her an invaluable ally to Batman, Nightwing, and the Justice League.
As Oracle, Barbara founded the Birds of Prey, a team of female superheroes including Black Canary, Huntress, and others. This all-female team became a staple in DC Comics, showcasing Barbara’s leadership and strategic genius. Oracle’s role allowed Barbara to continue fighting crime from behind the scenes, empowering her character and making her a representation of resilience and adaptability. For many fans, Oracle became as iconic as Batgirl, proving that Barbara’s heroism transcended physical limitations.
5. The Return to Batgirl
In 2011, DC’s The New 52 reboot restored Barbara’s mobility, allowing her to return to her role as Batgirl. Written by Gail Simone, the Batgirl series explored Barbara’s recovery process, including the trauma and challenges of reclaiming her identity as a physical hero after years as Oracle. Simone’s writing brought depth to Barbara’s character, acknowledging her journey as Oracle while embracing her renewed role as Batgirl.
This transition back to Batgirl was met with mixed reactions. While some fans celebrated her return to the Batgirl mantle, others missed her influential role as Oracle. However, Barbara’s resilience and strength remained at the forefront, as she adapted once again and continued to protect Gotham with the same tenacity and intelligence that defined her.
6. Portrayals of Barbara Gordon: Live-Action, Cartoons, and Movies
Barbara Gordon has been portrayed in various forms of media, each adding layers to her character. Yvonne Craig’s portrayal in the Batman '66 series introduced Batgirl to television audiences, becoming a defining interpretation of the character. In animated form, Barbara appeared in Batman: The Animated Series voiced by Melissa Gilbert and later by Tara Strong, where she played a key role as both Batgirl and Bruce Wayne’s ally.
In Batman Beyond, Barbara appears as Gotham’s police commissioner, and her backstory hints at a past relationship with Bruce Wayne—a controversial twist that some fans found intriguing while others viewed it as out of character. Barbara has also appeared in animated movies, including Batman: The Killing Joke adaptation, which controversially added a romantic subplot between her and Batman, sparking criticism among fans.
Barbara Gordon has been brought to life by a talented lineup of actresses in live-action and animation, each adding depth and nuance to her character in their unique portrayals. Here’s a look at the actresses who have voiced or portrayed Batgirl/Barbara Gordon and the projects in which they appeared.
Live-Action Actresses:
Yvonne Craig – Batman (1967-1968): Yvonne Craig was the first actress to portray Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in the 1966 Batman TV series, starting in its third season. Her portrayal brought the character into mainstream pop culture with her charm, courage, and her signature purple costume. Craig’s Batgirl remains an iconic portrayal and a fan favorite to this day.
Dina Meyer – Birds of Prey (2002-2003): In this short-lived WB series, Dina Meyer portrayed Barbara Gordon as Oracle, after being paralyzed by the Joker. We did get to see flashbacks of Barbara in a great Batgirl costume. Meyer’s Barbara was a mentor to Helena Kyle (the Huntress, the daughter of Catwoman and Batman) and Dinah Lance (Black Canary), showcasing her intelligence, resilience, and leadership skills. Although the series only lasted one season, Meyer’s performance left a lasting impression.
Alicia Silverstone – Batman & Robin (1997): Alicia Silverstone portrayed a reimagined Batgirl named Barbara Wilson, Alfred Pennyworth’s niece, rather than the classic Barbara Gordon. While this interpretation differed from the comics, Silverstone’s Batgirl brought a younger, spirited character to the film, adding to the Bat-Family dynamic.
Savannah Welch – Titans (2021): In the HBO Max series Titans, Savannah Welch played Barbara Gordon in her Oracle persona, as Commissioner of Gotham Police after her injury. Welch’s Barbara is portrayed as a powerful, authoritative figure and former romantic partner of Dick Grayson, with hints of her backstory as Batgirl.
Leslie Grace – Batgirl (Unreleased): Leslie Grace was cast as Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in a standalone film intended for HBO Max. Despite completing production, the film was shelved by Warner Bros. Discovery in 2022 and remains unreleased.
Voice Actresses in Animation and Video Games:
Jane Webb – The Adventures of Batman (1968-1969): Jane Webb was the first voice actress to portray Batgirl in this animated series, marking Barbara Gordon’s debut in animated form.
Melendy Britt (who also voiced She-Ra: Princess of Power) – The New Adventures of Batman (1977-1978): Melendy Britt voiced Batgirl in this animated series, which aired on CBS and brought Batgirl back to animated television alongside Batman and Robin.
Melissa Gilbert – Batman: The Animated Series (1992-1995): Melissa Gilbert voiced Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in Batman: The Animated Series, bringing the character into the iconic DC Animated Universe (DCAU). Gilbert’s Batgirl became a beloved version for fans, particularly with her chemistry alongside Batman and Robin.
Tara Strong – The New Batman Adventures (1997-1999), Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker (2000): Tara Strong took over the role from Melissa Gilbert and continued to voice Barbara Gordon in the DCAU.
Stockard Channing – Batman Beyond (1999-2001), Stockard Channing voiced the older Barbara Gordon iIn this show, Barbara is Gotham’s police commissioner, retired from her role as Batgirl but still a formidable presence as an authority figure in Gotham. Channing’s portrayal of the older, wiser Barbara brought a sense of gravitas and resilience to the character.
Angie Harmon - Batman Beyond (1999-2001), Harmon portrayed Barbara Gordon in season 3 of the animated series Batman Beyond and the film Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker. armon's performance added depth to the character, showcasing Barbara's evolution from a vigilante crimefighter to a respected authority figure within Gotham's law enforcement.
Danielle Judovits – The Batman (2004-2008) In this version, Barbara Gordon becomes Batgirl before Dick Grayson appears as Robin, making her Batman’s first sidekick in the show. Judovits’s portrayal emphasized Barbara’s youthful energy and enthusiasm, showcasing her as a spirited and resourceful crimefighter who was eager to assist Batman in his mission to protect Gotham.
Kimberly Brooks – Brooks portrayed Barbara in several games within the seriesBatman: Arkham Asylum (2009) – as Oracle, providing mission support and guidance to Batman. Batman: Arkham City (2011) – as Oracle, continuing her role as Batman's ally and information source.Injustice: Gods Among Us (2013). Brooks’s performance as Batgirl in Injustice brought the same strength and agility to the character that she showcased in the Arkham series, adding consistency to her portrayal of Barbara across multiple DC video games.
Alyson Stoner – Young Justice (2010-2023): Alyson Stoner voiced Barbara Gordon in the animated series Young Justice, where Barbara is portrayed as a skilled member of the team, and eventually, she assumes the role of Oracle after her injury.
Mae Whitman – DC Super Hero Girls (2015-2018): Mae Whitman provides the voice for a teenage Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in DC Super Hero Girls, bringing a youthful, fun energy to the character in a series aimed at younger audiences.
Grey DeLisle – Batman: Arkham video games series (2009-2015): Grey DeLisle voiced Barbara Gordon in the popular Batman: Arkham video game series, portraying her as Oracle. Her portrayal offered gamers a version of Barbara who provides support to Batman and the Bat-Family from behind the scenes.
Briana Cuoco – Harley Quinn (2019-present): Briana Cuoco voices Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in the animated Harley Quinn series. Her character is depicted as a spirited and driven young hero inspired by Batman and devoted to protecting Gotham.
Krystal Joy Brown – Batman: Caped Crusader (2024): In the Amazon Prime animated series Batman: Caped Crusader, Krystal Joy Brown voices public defender Barbara Gordon, the first time the character has been shown as an African American woman in an animated series bringing a fresh interpretation to the character.
Each of these actresses has contributed to Barbara Gordon’s legacy, bringing unique qualities to the character and allowing fans to see Batgirl and Oracle from different perspectives. These portrayals have shown Barbara as a brave and determined hero, a brilliant strategist, and a compassionate leader, making her an enduring figure in the DC Universe and an inspiration to fans across generations.
7. Relationships and Controversies: Babs and Dick, Bruce Wayne, and Jason Todd
For me, Barbara and Dick Grayson, a.k.a. Nightwing, have always had the best chemistry. Their long-standing friendship, mutual respect, and affection have developed into one of DC’s most iconic relationships. Dick’s nickname for her, “Babs,” is a term of endearment that reflects their closeness and shared history. In several comics, including Nightwing and Birds of Prey, their relationship is explored with depth and nuance, showcasing them as equals and partners.
However, some storylines have paired Barbara with Bruce Wayne (Batman), particularly in Batman: The Animated Series and Batman Beyond. This controversial pairing didn’t sit well with many fans, as it felt like a departure from Barbara’s character and complicated her relationship with Dick. Another surprising relationship for Barbara appeared in Batman: Three Jokers, where she shared a brief romance with Jason Todd, the second Robin. While these alternate pairings exist, my loyalty lies with the iconic “Babs and Dick” pairing, as their chemistry and shared history make them a perfect match.
8. Mighty and Resilient: Barbara as a Symbol of Hope
Barbara Gordon’s journey embodies resilience, courage, and adaptability. From a self-trained vigilante to the mastermind Oracle and back to Batgirl, she shows that true strength comes from one’s ability to rise above challenges. Barbara’s story is a powerful reminder that no obstacle can limit her heroism. Whether she’s fighting on the streets of Gotham or coordinating missions from behind the scenes, Barbara has proven that heroes come in many forms.
For fans like me, Barbara’s story represents the courage to reinvent oneself and the determination to keep fighting, no matter the setbacks. Her journey from Batgirl to Oracle and back continues to inspire, making Barbara Gordon one of the most respected and admired figures in the DC Universe.
9. Barbara Gordon: Mentor and Inspiration to New Generations
Barbara Gordon’s legacy extends beyond her own heroic journey; she has also served as a mentor and inspiration to other Batgirls and superheroines in the DC Universe. Over the years, Barbara has trained and guided successors like Cassandra Cain and Stephanie Brown, who have each taken up the Batgirl mantle. As Oracle, she became a mentor to Black Canary and Huntress in the Birds of Prey, helping them become formidable heroes in their own right. Through her wisdom, experience, and strategic brilliance, Barbara has shaped a new generation of heroes, reinforcing her position as a leader among Gotham’s protectors.
Cassandra Cain, a skilled martial artist with a unique approach to crime-fighting, was one of Barbara’s most notable protégées. Barbara’s influence helped Cassandra not only grow into a capable Batgirl but also navigate her traumatic past and find a sense of purpose. Similarly, Stephanie Brown, who had previously fought crime as Spoiler, found guidance and mentorship under Barbara’s watchful eye, helping her mature into a strong and independent Batgirl. Barbara’s mentorship of these young women demonstrates her commitment to empowering others, ensuring that Gotham will always have dedicated protectors.
Barbara Gordon’s mentorship of Tiffany Fox, Lucius Fox’s daughter, as Batgirl in Future State and Batman: Urban Legends marked a historic moment for the Bat-Family. Tiffany, one of the first Black characters to take on the Batgirl mantle, brought fresh representation and new perspectives to Gotham’s heroes. As the daughter of Lucius Fox—a key figure in Batman’s world—Tiffany’s journey honors her family’s legacy and strengthens the Bat-Family’s mission. Through this mentorship, Barbara extends the Batgirl legacy to a new generation, passing on her knowledge, skills, and values to ensure Gotham’s protection endures.
For Barbara, guiding Tiffany reflects her growth from Batgirl to Oracle and now as a teacher, solidifying her place as a mentor and leader. This mentorship also underscores the power of women uplifting women, as Barbara inspires Tiffany to bring her own unique strengths to the role. With Tiffany’s addition, the Bat-Family becomes more diverse and reflective of today’s world, while Barbara’s enduring influence as a hero empowers Gotham’s future protectors. Together, they embody the resilience, intelligence, and determination that define the Batgirl legacy.
Barbara’s role as Oracle was especially significant in this regard, as she provided resources, tactical support, and invaluable guidance to countless heroes across the DC Universe. Her Birds of Prey team exemplified the power of female solidarity, with Barbara as the guiding force behind their missions. Her journey from Batgirl to Oracle and back also serves as an inspiring reminder that heroes can overcome setbacks and find new ways to fight for justice. Through her mentorship, Barbara has inspired countless heroes, proving that true leadership is about lifting others up.
In many ways, Barbara Gordon is a hero beyond the mask. Her legacy isn’t just in her own accomplishments but in the strength, resilience, and courage she has inspired in others. By passing on her skills, wisdom, and hope, Barbara has cemented her place as one of the most influential figures in the DC Universe, ensuring that her impact will endure for generations.
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