**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 look at five of his most memorable roles that showcase his range and talent. Each of these characters provides a glimpse of Keaton’s ability to switch between different genres and bring depth to his performances.
### 1. Beetlejuice
The iconic role of Beetlejuice was a turning point in Keaton’s career. In the Tim Burton classic, he plays the titular character—a mischievous ghost who helps a couple scare away new occupants from their home. Keaton’s eccentric portrayal, marked by sharp comedic timing and a willingness to go over the top, made Beetlejuice an unforgettable character. The film remains a cult favorite, with Keaton’s performance celebrated for its originality and energy.
### 2. Birdman
In *Birdman*, Keaton takes on the role of Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor famous for playing a superhero—an intriguing parallel to Keaton’s own career. 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 and nuanced performance earned him an Academy Award nomination, cementing the film’s critical success.
### 3. Spotlight
In *Spotlight*, Keaton portrays Walter Robinson, an investigative journalist working for The Boston Globe’s Spotlight team. The film focuses on the team’s investigation into child abuse within a major institution. Keaton’s authentic and committed performance highlights the dedication and perseverance of journalists who bravely expose uncomfortable truths. His role was pivotal in the film’s widespread critical acclaim.
### 4. The Founder
Playing Ray Kroc in *The Founder*, Keaton embodies the complex figure behind the global McDonald’s empire. The film chronicles Kroc’s journey from a struggling milkshake machine salesman to the businessman who transformed a small burger joint into a worldwide phenomenon. Keaton’s portrayal captures Kroc’s ambition and moral ambiguity, offering a deep and compelling look into the real-life story of the fast-food industry.
### 5. Gung Ho
In *Gung Ho*, Keaton stars as Hunt Stevenson, an American who introduces Japanese management techniques to a struggling Pennsylvania auto plant. The film blends comedy and drama as Stevenson navigates cultural tensions between American workers and Japanese managers. Keaton’s performance skillfully balances humor with the complexities of cross-cultural interaction, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Michael Keaton’s diverse body of work continues to impress audiences and critics alike, proving that his talent spans a wide array of characters and genres. These five roles are just a glimpse into the enduring legacy of a truly iconic actor.
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