Alfred Pennyworth The Pre-Crisis comics (the comics that were published by DC Comics between 1938 and 1984) established Alfred as a retired actor and intelligence agent who followed the deathbed wish of his dying father (who he identified only as "Jarvis") to carry on the tradition of serving the Wayne family. To that end, Alfred introduced himself to Bruce Wayne and Dick Grayson at Wayne Manor and insisted on becoming their valet. Although the pair did not want one, especially since they did not want to jeopardize their secret identities with a servant in the house, they did not have the heart
Ian Abercrombie Ian Abercrombie Ian Abercrombie (11 September 1934 – 26 January 2012) was an English actor. He played Alfred Pennyworth on "Birds of Prey", Justin Pitt (Elaine Benes's boss) during the sixth season of "Seinfeld", Rupert Cavanaugh (Ian Hainsworth's butler) on "Desperate Housewives", Professor Crumbs on "Wizards of Waverly Place", and Palpatine on "". Abercrombie was born on 11 September 1934 in Grays, Essex, England. He began his theatrical career during the Blitz in World War II. After his footwork years during which he earned Bronze, Silver and Gold medals in stage dancing, he performed in London, Scotland, Ireland, and the