Batman is famous for having incredible enemies, but it’s often overlooked how many of those villains have actually become heroes. Over time, Batman has faced a remarkable group of supervillains who constantly tested his limits. While fans expect compelling antagonists in Batman stories, it’s surprising when those villains turn from criminals into forces for good – or at least, help to prevent crime.
It’s surprisingly common to see Batman’s enemies try to be heroes. With Batman stories spanning almost a century, many of Bruce Wayne’s foes have explored the benefits of doing good. Sometimes this is just a short-lived attempt, like when the Riddler briefly worked as a detective. Other times, a villain truly becomes an ally, earning Batman’s trust, as seen with Catwoman. Here are 7 Batman villains who, for a while at least, actually became heroes.
7. Riddler
The Riddler is always eager to demonstrate his intelligence. For a short while, he surprisingly used this drive for good, working as a detective in Gotham. He genuinely ran a legitimate business and even assisted Batman with a few cases. Unfortunately, this period didn’t last. A shocking explosion caused him to revert to his criminal behavior. It was a shame, because during his time as a private investigator, the Riddler showed he could actually make a positive difference in Gotham.
6. Man-Bat
Kirk Langstrom, the man behind Man-Bat, is constantly battling his monstrous side, but he still tries to be a better person. At Wonder Woman’s urging, he joined Justice League Dark, contributing his intelligence to help fight supernatural threats. However, this didn’t last, and Langstrom eventually returned to Gotham, where his Man-Bat persona continued to cause trouble. It’s unfortunate, as he had seemed to find a good fit with the team before reverting to his old ways.
5. Poison Ivy
While she might not be a traditional hero, Poison Ivy, also known as Pamela Isley, has changed a lot, much like the plants she loves. She used to be a criminal focused on botanical themes, but after the New 52 reboot, she began targeting those who harm the environment – particularly CEOs of polluting companies. Ivy feels a deep connection to the natural world and prioritizes protecting plants and animals over committing crimes. She’s moved beyond being a villain, though ‘hero’ might still be a stretch.
4. Harley Quinn
In recent years, Harley Quinn has moved away from being a villain and is now more of a hero, much like the person she loves. After finally leaving the Joker, she began forging her own path. Without his negative influence, Harley generally acts as an anti-hero rather than a true villain. While she still enjoys causing trouble, she has a good heart and often works alongside heroes, occasionally even teaming up with the Justice League.
3. Clayface
Surprisingly, Basil Karlo, also known as Clayface, actually teamed up with Batman and the Bat-Family for a while. Batman gave Karlo a chance to turn his life around by joining the team and protecting Gotham, and Karlo accepted. He proved to be a valuable ally, using his powers to help the city through many difficult situations. Sadly, this arrangement didn’t last forever. However, Clayface appears to have changed for the better and mostly stays out of trouble these days.
2. Catwoman
Selina Kyle, known as Catwoman, is addicted to the excitement of stealing. However, her feelings for Batman have had an even bigger impact on her, pushing her away from being a typical villain and towards a more heroic role. While she still steals occasionally, she often uses her abilities to help others, though she can’t resist a valuable jewel now and then. Over the years, Catwoman and Batman have frequently teamed up, and despite their disagreements, she ultimately fights on the side of good.
1. Red Hood
Jason Todd initially worked alongside Batman, but after being resurrected in the mid-2000s, he briefly became a villain. He deliberately broke Batman’s rule against killing to prove a point, and spent years opposing Bruce Wayne and the rest of the Bat-Family. Eventually, Jason calmed down, choosing to use less-lethal weapons. While he still holds grudges and argues with those he cares about, Red Hood has realized that being a hero is a better path for him than being a villain.
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2026-01-21 23:41