Alfred Pennyworth look has remained with the character ever since, even surviving his apparent "death" and resurrection. Alfred was originally conceived as a comedic foil for Batman and Robin. In most early tales, he made bungling attempts to be a detective on a par with the young masters. He was given a four-page feature of his own, and the feature lasted thirteen issues, skipping "Batman" #35, with the last story in "Batman" #36. The stories followed a simple formula, with Alfred solving a crime and catching the culprits entirely by accident. In later years, the comedic aspects of the character were downplayed.
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