**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 gives us a glimpse of Keaton’s ability to switch between different genres and bring depth to his performances.

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### Beetlejuice – The Iconic Ghost

The character Beetlejuice marked a turning point in Keaton’s career. In the Tim Burton classic, he plays the titular mischievous ghost who helps a couple scare away new occupants from their home.

Keaton’s eccentric portrayal made Beetlejuice an instantly iconic role. His impeccable comedic timing and willingness to go over the top created a performance that remains unforgettable. The film itself has become a beloved classic, largely due to his originality in the role.

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### Birdman – A Washed-Up Actor’s Redemption

In *Birdman*, Keaton plays Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor famous for his superhero role. Interestingly, this character parallels Keaton’s own career, adding layers to his performance.

The film explores themes of fame, identity, and redemption, following Riggan’s attempt to revive his career by directing and starring in a Broadway play. Keaton’s nuanced and compelling portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination, showcasing his dramatic prowess.

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### Spotlight – Championing Investigative Journalism

Keaton’s role as Walter Robinson in *Spotlight* shines a light on the dedication of investigative journalists. The film centers around the Boston Globe’s Spotlight team uncovering child abuse within a powerful institution.

His authentic portrayal emphasizes perseverance and commitment to uncovering the truth, contributing significantly to the film’s critical success and impact.

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### The Founder – Ambition and Moral Complexity

In *The Founder*, Keaton takes on the role of Ray Kroc, the man responsible for making McDonald’s a global fast-food empire. The film traces Kroc’s rise from a struggling salesman to a business magnate.

Keaton embodies Kroc’s ambition and moral ambiguity, skillfully bringing depth to this real-life story about business challenges and ethical dilemmas.

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### Gung Ho – Bridging Cultures Through Comedy and Drama

*Gung Ho* showcases Keaton as Hunt Stevenson, an American introducing Japanese management techniques at a struggling Pennsylvania auto plant. The film blends comedy and drama as Stevenson works to bridge cultural gaps between workers and managers.

Keaton balances humor with the complex realities of cross-cultural interactions, demonstrating his ability to tackle both lighthearted and serious themes seamlessly.

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Michael Keaton’s body of work continues to impress audiences with its diversity and emotional depth. These five characters highlight why he remains one of Hollywood’s most memorable and skilled actors.
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