It's a sad day for Batman fans all across the world. Actor Adam West passed away late Friday night in Los Angeles at the age of 88 years old. According to official representatives, West has been fighting a recent battle with leukemia. “Our dad always saw himself as The Bright Knight, and aspired to make a positive impact on his fans’ lives. He was and always will be our hero," An official statement read, delivered by his surviving family. West is best known for his iconic role as the Caped Crusader, dating back to the 1966 "Batman" television series. The action series originally was released on ABC, and Adam West starred as the legendary Batman. Last year, West appeared on the 200th episode of "The Big Bang Theory", in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of Batman.

Born William West Anderson, the actor was originally from Walla Walla, Washington. At Whitman College, West graduated with a degree in psychology and literature. Known for his theatrical voice, West worked as a disc jockey and used his vocal talents for acting over the years. West made his first onscreen debut as Ham Ector in the television series The Philco-Goodyear Television Playhouse, which aired between 1954-1955. West also took on several roles in television shows like Colt .45, 77 Sunset Strip, Maverick and The Detectives.

West will always be remembered for his legendary role as Batman/Bruce Wayne in the 1966 Batman: The Movie. West also starred as Batman for the television series, which ran from 1966 until 1968. Many grew up with the 1966 Batman television series, and can hardly forget the show's iconic theme song. Over the years, the television show has garnered a cult following. Created by Lorenzo Semple Jr. and William Dozier, the classic Batman television series followed the Caped Crusader against the villains in Gotham City. The series starred Adam West as Bruce Wayne / Batman, Burt Ward as Robin and Alan Napier as Alfred. Actor Neil Hamilton starred as Commissioner Gordon. Adam West also starred alongside Burgess Meredith as the Penguin and Cesar Romero as the Joker. The show continued to run for a total of three seasons, and continued to air long after.

Over the years, West continued to work in the film and television industry. In more recent years, West worked in voice over roles, lending his voice to video games and animated television series alike. For over a decade, West starred in various roles in Family Guy, including a character named Mayor Adam West.

"Family Guy has lost its mayor, and I have lost a friend," Seth MacFarlane, the creator of Family Guy, wrote in a Tweet. "Adam West was a joy to work with, and the kind of guy you always wanted to be around. His positivity, good nature, and sense of fun were undeniable, and it was always a big jolt of the best kind of energy when he walked in to record the show. He knew comedy, and he knew humanity. I am beyond fortunate to have had the privilege of working with him, and he will be profoundly missed by all of us. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have given, Mr. Mayor. You're irreplaceable."

Written by Jade Nicolette

Twitter: @nicolette_style