The Batman supporting characters are a collective of fictional characters appearing in American comic books published by DC Comics. These characters are depicted as allies of the superhero Batman.
Since Batman's introduction in 1939, the character has accumulated a number of recognizable supporting characters. The first Batman supporting character was Commissioner James Gordon, who first appeared in the same comic book as Batman in Detective Comics #27 (May 1939), and is Batman's ally in the Gotham City Police Department. Robin, Batman's vigilante partner, was introduced in the Spring of 1940, Alfred Pennyworth, Batman's butler, was introduced in 1943, and Barbara Gordon was introduced in 1967.
Batman Family is the informal name for Batman's closest allies, generally masked vigilantes operating in Gotham City. Batman also forms strong bonds or close working relationships with other superheroes, including Justice League members Superman, Green Arrow and Zatanna, as well as members of the Outsiders superhero team. Others such as Jason Bard, Harold, Onyx, and Toyman work for him.
In addition, Batman has perhaps the most well known adversaries in fiction, commonly referred to as Batman's rogues gallery, which includes the Joker, Penguin, and Two-Face, among others.