Michael Gough (1916-2011) was a prolific British actor whose career spanned seven decades, ranging from theatre to film and television. Initially known for his stage performances and as a recurring face in British horror cinema of the 1950s and '60s, with appearances in films such as Hammer's *Dracula* (1958), his international fame is inextricably linked to the role of the loyal butler Alfred Pennyworth in the *Batman* film series directed by Tim Burton and Joel Schumacher (1989-1997). His versatility led him to collaborate frequently with Burton in later years, on films such as *Sleepy Hollow* (1999) and as a voice actor for *Corpse Bride* (2005) and *Alice in Wonderland* (2010). Also acclaimed for his roles in the series *Doctor Who*, Gough received significant recognition for his theatre work, winning a Tony Award in 1988 for his performance in *Breaking the Code* on Broadway.