Michael Keaton Turns 73: A Look Back at His Best Roles

Michael Keaton returns as Beetlejuice 36 years later.

Today marks a milestone for Hollywood icon Michael Keaton, who turns 73. With a career spanning over four decades, Keaton has brought unforgettable characters to life, from dark comic heroes to eccentric businessmen. As the highly anticipated Beetlejuice sequel lands in theaters this weekend, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on some of Keaton’s most remarkable performances. Read our Beetlejuice 2 Movie Review.

One of Keaton’s most acclaimed roles is his portrayal of Ray Kroc in “The Founder” (2016). As the man who turned McDonald’s into a global empire, Keaton delivers a masterclass in character evolution. He portrays Kroc with a razor-sharp edge, skillfully balancing ambition and ruthlessness. His performance is both charismatic and chilling, offering a deep dive into the cost of success. Keaton’s nuanced take on Kroc remains one of his finest roles. This film shows his talent for bringing complex, real-life figures to the screen.

Keaton’s turn as Bruce Wayne in Batman Returns (1992) is another standout.

Returning as the caped crusader under Tim Burton’s direction, Keaton managed to fuse the darkness of Gotham City with the vulnerability of a hero haunted by his past. His portrayal brought depth to a character who was often portrayed as a straightforward action hero. Keaton’s Batman was gritty and introspective, perfectly fitting Burton’s gothic world. His chemistry with Michelle Pfeiffer’s Catwoman added a layer of emotional complexity, making Batman Returns a beloved part of the superhero genre.

Of course, no discussion of Keaton’s career would be complete without mentioning his iconic role in Beetlejuice (1988). As the mischievous, undead trickster, Keaton turned what could have been a one-note character into an anarchic yet lovable antihero. His energetic performance brought Tim Burton’s wild vision to life, combining slapstick humor with eerie charm. The upcoming sequel has fans excited to see him slip back into the role that remains one of his most memorable.

Michael Keaton has had an amazing career, showing off his skills and versatility. Whether he’s playing a villain, a hero, or even an unhinged ghost, he always keeps us hooked. As he celebrates his 73rd birthday, his legacy only grows stronger, especially with Beetlejuice returning to the big screen this weekend.

Read more News on Nerdtropolis and make sure to subscribe to our Channel.