I’ll never forget the first time I saw Cesar Romero’s Joker in action. It wasn’t in a comic, and it definitely wasn’t in some brooding, rain-soaked cityscape. No, it was on a bright, garish set of the Batman TV show from the '60s, where this Joker cackled and cartwheeled like a mad clown at a children’s birthday party gone horribly wrong.

For newcomers, it’s easy to dismiss this version of the Joker as campy or outdated. But that would be a mistake. Romero’s portrayal is a window into a very specific era of superhero storytelling — one that embraced bold colors, over-the-top theatrics, and an almost surreal sense of humor. And while he only appeared in one issue of Batman comics (Batman #168, 1965), that issue alone — paired with his unforgettable TV appearances — makes him a must-know for any budding Batman fan.

Here’s a guide to the best of Cesar Romero’s Joker, ranked by accessibility for newcomers:

5. “The Joker’s Last Laugh” (Batman #168, 1965)

This is the only comic book appearance of Romero’s Joker, and it’s a direct adaptation of his character from the TV show. If you’re new to comics or the Golden Age style, this might be a tough first read. The dialogue is punchy and stylized, the plot is tight but predictable, and the action is more theatrical than gritty.

Still, it's a worthwhile read if you want to see how the television version translated to the page. The story is simple: the Joker tries to outwit Batman with a series of deadly pranks. What makes it memorable is how much of Romero’s charm comes through — especially in the Joker’s overconfidence and flair for the dramatic.

4. “Batman on Ice” (1966)

Before it was a Halloween special, “Batman on Ice” was a live stage show that toured across the U.S., featuring Romero reprising his role as the Joker. This wasn’t just a cartoonish sideshow — it was a full production with action sequences, musical numbers, and plenty of camp.

If you can find footage or stills from the tour, it’s a fascinating glimpse into how seriously (or not) audiences took these characters at the time. For modern fans, it’s a fun curio — like seeing a superhero in a vaudeville show. And for kids, it’s pure delight.

3. “The Penguin Goes Straight” (Season 1, Episode 20)

Romero’s Joker doesn’t appear in every episode of the 1960s Batman, but when he does, he steals the show. In this episode, the Penguin (played by Burgess Meredith) tries to go straight — which, of course, means the Joker won’t let him. It’s a classic rivalry, full of slapstick and visual gags, and it’s one of the clearest examples of how Romero made the Joker both terrifying and hilarious.

What makes this episode great for newcomers is how it highlights the Joker’s chaotic energy. He’s not trying to kill Batman — he’s trying to ruin Penguin’s life for fun. That’s a very different kind of villainy, and it’s refreshing in its own way.

2. “Instant Decision” (Season 1, Episode 19)

This is the debut episode of Cesar Romero’s Joker, and it’s a perfect entry point. From the moment he appears — literally rolling into frame — you know you’re dealing with a different kind of villain. He challenges Batman to a duel, then tricks him with a fake death. The tone is pure camp, but the stakes feel real enough.

What makes this episode so accessible is how clearly it establishes the Joker’s M.O.: mischief over malice. He’s not interested in world domination or revenge. He just wants to prove he’s the best — and that makes him oddly likable.

1. “The Joker’s Crazy Crimes” (Season 1, Episode 16)

This is the most iconic of all the Joker episodes — and the one that best captures the spirit of his character. In it, the Joker commits a series of increasingly absurd crimes, all while taunting Batman and Robin with riddles and traps. The highlight? The “Joker’s Joyride” sequence, where he paralyzes Gotham with a wave of chaos.

If you only watch one episode of the 1960s Batman to understand Cesar Romero’s Joker, make it this one. It’s fast-paced, colorful, and filled with that unique blend of danger and humor that defined the era.

Want to dive deeper into the Joker’s twisted mind — or ask him why he never took Batman seriously?
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