Just before he was chosen for his role as Batman, he acted alongside The Three Stooges in the last ever feature film “The Outlaw is coming” shot in 1965.
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West was shooting for a Nestle commercial promoting Nestle Quik. While playing Captain Quik, a James Bond type character in a sailor's cap, he was noticed by Batman producer William Dozier who approached him for the role. His contract was signed on the spot. He was also given the chance to choose who would play his sidekick Robin. West chose Burt Ward, a brown belt karate expert who knew nothing of acting. The year was 1965 and West was 37.
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Till 1965, he was always a journeyman actor who none relay recognized. Batman was aired on ABC television in 1966 and West instantly became a household name.
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