**5 Iconic Michael Keaton Characters You Must Remember**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025, 04:57 PM*
Michael Keaton, a versatile actor, has delivered some unforgettable performances over the years. From intense dramas to quirky comedies, Keaton has done it all with unmatched finesse. Today, we take a look at five of his most memorable roles that showcase his incredible range and talent. Each character gives us a glimpse of Keaton’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres while bringing depth and originality to his performances.
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### 1. Beetlejuice
*The iconic ‘Beetlejuice’ character*
Beetlejuice was a major turning point in Michael Keaton’s career. In this Tim Burton cult classic, Keaton plays the mischievous ghost Beetlejuice, who helps a couple scare away new occupants from their home. His eccentric and over-the-top portrayal, coupled with impeccable comedic timing, made the character unforgettable. Even today, *Beetlejuice* remains a classic, largely thanks to Keaton’s original and lively performance.
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### 2. Birdman
*A ‘Birdman’ in Hollywood*
In *Birdman*, Keaton takes on the role of Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor known for playing a superhero, ironically mirroring Keaton’s own career trajectory. The film delves into themes of fame, identity, and redemption as Riggan attempts to revive his career by directing and starring in a Broadway play. Keaton’s powerful performance was widely acclaimed and earned him an Academy Award nomination, highlighting his ability to bring complex characters to life.
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### 3. Spotlight
*’Spotlight’ on journalism*
In the critically acclaimed film *Spotlight*, Keaton portrays Walter Robinson, an investigative journalist on The Boston Globe’s Spotlight team. The movie follows the team’s harrowing investigation into child abuse within a powerful institution. Keaton’s authentic and heartfelt portrayal emphasizes the dedication and courage of journalists who work tirelessly to expose difficult truths. His performance was a vital part of the film’s success and critical praise.
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### 4. The Founder
*A father figure in ‘The Founder’*
*The Founder* sees Keaton as Ray Kroc, the ambitious salesman who transforms McDonald’s into a global fast-food empire. The film follows Kroc’s complicated journey as he partners with the McDonald brothers and navigates the ethical challenges of business expansion. Keaton expertly captures Ray Kroc’s drive and moral ambiguity, adding depth to this real-life story of entrepreneurship and ambition.
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### 5. Gung Ho
*Comedy meets drama in ‘Gung Ho’*
In *Gung Ho*, Keaton stars as Hunt Stevenson, an American tasked with introducing Japanese management techniques to a struggling Pennsylvania auto plant. Blending comedy and drama, the film explores cultural clashes and cooperation as Stevenson works to bridge the gap between American workers and Japanese management. Keaton’s performance effectively balances humor with the nuanced challenges of cross-cultural interaction.
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Michael Keaton’s diverse roles reflect his exceptional talent and versatility. From supernatural comedy to intense drama, his performances continue to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impact on cinema. These five characters are just a glimpse into the remarkable career of an iconic actor.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/michael-keaton-s-unforgettable-characters-a-list/story
